Bulgogi

Posted in Recipe Collections / Favorite Recipes: Thai, Persian, Korean, French, and More
Bulgogi
Embrace the vibrant flavors of Korea with this Bulgogi recipe, featuring thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then grilled to achieve a delightful char and tender texture. Bulgogi, meaning "fire meat," is a testament to the joy of sharing food, inviting everyone to partake in the communal experience of Korean BBQ. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or new to Korean cuisine, this Bulgogi recipe promises a culinary adventure that's both delicious and accessible.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

  • ½ ripe pear, grated
  • 4 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 2 tbsp mirin
  • Black pepper, to taste

For the Bulgogi:

  • 1½ lbs ribeye steak, thinly sliced
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the grated pear, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, mirin, and black pepper to create a rich marinade.

  2. Marinate the Beef: Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

  3. Grill the Beef: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated beef in batches, turning once, until nicely charred and cooked through, about 1-2 minutes per side.

  4. Serve: Serve the grilled bulgogi on a platter, topped with sliced onions, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy with steamed rice, lettuce wraps, or your favorite Korean side dishes.

A Taste of Korean BBQ

Bulgogi stands as a pillar of Korean BBQ, a dish that brings people together around the grill to cook, share, and savor the flavors of Korea. This recipe simplifies the traditional process, making it easy to recreate the iconic dish at home. Whether enjoyed wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, over a bowl of steamed rice, or as part of a larger Korean feast, Bulgogi is sure to delight your taste buds and introduce you to the depth and variety of Korean cuisine.

Serving Suggestions and Personal Touches

Elevate your Bulgogi experience by serving it with a variety of traditional Korean side dishes, known as banchan. Common favorites include kimchi, spicy cucumber salad, and seasoned bean sprouts, which add a range of flavors and textures to your meal. For a hands-on dining experience, consider setting up a DIY lettuce wrap station with fresh lettuce leaves, sliced garlic, chili peppers, and a dollop of ssamjang (Korean BBQ sauce). This allows guests to customize their wraps and enjoy the interactive aspect of Korean cuisine.

The Art of Bulgogi

Bulgogi’s magic lies in its balance of flavors and the tenderness of the meat. Achieving the perfect char without overcooking requires a hot grill and quick cooking times. For those looking to add a smoky depth to their Bulgogi, consider using a charcoal grill, which can impart a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish to new heights. Additionally, experimenting with different cuts of beef, such as sirloin or tenderloin, can offer variations in texture and fat content, allowing you to find your perfect match.

A Journey Through Flavor

Bulgogi is more than just a dish; it’s a journey through the flavors that define Korean cuisine. The process of marinating and grilling the meat is a testament to the care and attention to detail that Korean cooking embodies. As you savor each bite, you’re not only enjoying a delicious meal but also participating in a culinary tradition that has brought families and friends together for generations. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Korean food or exploring these flavors for the first time, making Bulgogi at home is a delightful way to connect with the rich tapestry of tastes and aromas that Korea has to offer.

A Culinary Experience

Bulgogi is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that reflects the warmth and richness of Korean culture. Its preparation and communal enjoyment speak to the heart of Korean dining traditions, making every bite a connection to centuries of culinary history.

Nutrition Facts

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Servings Per Recipe: 4
  • Calories: 350

% Daily Value

  • Total Fat: 20gg (26% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 8gg (40% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 90mgmg (30% DV)
  • Sodium: 700mgmg (30% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12gg (4% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 1gg (4% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 9gg
  • Protein: 30gg

Note: The “% Daily Value” (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Recipe analyzed by verywell.