Korean Bulgogi Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Bulgogi, or Korean marinated beef, is a beloved dish known for its tender texture and sweet-savory flavor. It’s a Korean BBQ classic that features thinly sliced beef marinated in a flavorful sauce, grilled to perfection. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for both family dinners and special gatherings.
Feel free to modify any part of this post to match your style or preferences!
Ingredients
For the Bulgogi Marinade:
1/2 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp sesame oil
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup mirin (Korean cooking wine) – optional for extra depth
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 onion, grated
1 pear or apple, grated (for natural sweetness and tenderness)
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Bulgogi:
1 lb (500g) beef ribeye or sirloin, thinly sliced (freeze for 15-20 minutes before slicing to get thin pieces)
1/2 onion, thinly sliced
1 green onion, chopped
1 tbsp vegetable oil for cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, mirin (if using), minced garlic, grated onion, grated pear (or apple), sesame seeds, and black pepper. This marinade will enhance the flavors and tenderize the beef.
2. Marinate the Beef
Place the thinly sliced beef in a large bowl and pour the marinade over it. Mix everything well, ensuring the beef is evenly coated. Add sliced onions and green onions for extra flavor. Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Cook the Bulgogi
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once the pan is hot, add the marinated beef in batches, laying it flat for even cooking. Cook each batch for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and cooked through.
4. Serve and Garnish
Once cooked, transfer the bulgogi to a serving plate. Garnish with additional sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Bulgogi can be enjoyed in many ways:
Serve it with steamed rice and kimchi for a classic Korean meal.
Wrap the beef in lettuce leaves with a dollop of ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce) for a fresh twist.
Use it as a topping for rice bowls or even in sandwiches and tacos for a fusion experience!
Tips for the Perfect Bulgogi
Choose the Right Cut: Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin works best as it cooks quickly and remains tender.
Adjust Sweetness: You can tweak the amount of sugar and grated pear or apple according to your taste.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in small batches helps the meat cook evenly and prevents steaming.
Why You’ll Love Bulgogi
Bulgogi’s appeal lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures – the tender beef, the caramelized edges, and the delightful mix of sweet and savory in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of Korean BBQ or just looking for a new dish to try, this bulgogi recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Enjoy your homemade Korean Bulgogi!
