Easy Korean BBQ Beef Bulgogi recipe is a super delicious and easy recipe with the most flavorful marinade! The thin, tender slices of meat cook SO quickly that dinner can be on the table in the time it takes white rice to cook!
The savory beef combined with the sweet, gingery marinade is always a big hit. It’s time for Korean BBQ at home!
What is Beef Bulgogi?
So what is Korean Bulgogi? The word “bul” means fire in Korean, and “goki” means meat. So this is “fire meat!” That’s why we are going to slice it up thin and quickly cook at a higher temperature!
Ingredients for Korean Beef Bulgogi
A delicious Korean BBQ Beef Bulgogi needs only three things: a good cut of beef, a delicious marinade, and heat!!
- Boneless Ribeye or Top Sirloin: Tender, marbled cuts that stay juicy and soak up the marinade beautifully.
- Soy Sauce: The salty, savory base that gives bulgogi its deep umami flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Balances the saltiness with sweetness and helps caramelize the beef as it cooks.
- Sesame Oil: Adds rich, nutty aroma and authentic Korean flavor.
- Garlic: Brings savory depth and that classic Korean BBQ punch.
- Ginger Root: Adds warmth and freshness, balancing the sweet and salty notes.
- Mirin: A touch of mild sweetness and acidity that rounds out the marinade.
- Korean Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a gentle heat and a layer of smoky, complex flavor. You can also use gochujang.
- Vegetable Oil: Neutral oil that helps with high-heat cooking and prevents sticking.
- Sesame Seeds: Nutty garnish for texture, crunch, and extra flavor.
- Green Onions: Freshness and brightness, balancing the richness of the beef.
- Asian Pear: Natural tenderizer and subtle fruity sweetness that makes bulgogi uniquely delicious. It makes it extra authentic, but it’s totally ok to skip it as well.
What Cut of Beef for Bulgogi?
Ribeye has the most flavor and is my go-to choice, but sirloin, tenderloin, or skirt steak work great as well. The most important thing is to choose tender, marbled beef: leaner cuts like brisket or flank steak will turn out too tough so avoid those.
How to Quickly Cut Steak Thin for Authentic Beef Dishes
Cut the beef thinly against the grain to make it easier to chew, and marinate overnight. The marinade will tenderize the beef and it’ll turn out delicious over a charcoal BBQ. You’ll want to wrap in plastic wrap and freeze the meat for 20-30 minutes to get those extra thin slices!
How to Make Korean BBQ Beef Bulgogi
- Prep the Beef: Wrap the steak in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for 30 minutes. Unwrap the steak and slice across the grain in 1/4-inch thick slices.
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