Description
Bulgogi is a classic Korean dish featuring thinly sliced, marinated beef cooked to perfection over a grill or skillet. This recipe highlights a savory-sweet marinade made with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar and grated pear or apple, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that is perfect served with rice or lettuce wraps.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1 pound ribeye or sirloin, thinly sliced (Choose a cut with good marbling for tenderness.)
Marinade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (Provides the salty umami base.)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (Adds a rich, nutty flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (Balances the saltiness and helps caramelize the meat.)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (Imparts a robust flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (Provides a warm and slightly spicy note.)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (Adds a hint of heat.)
- 1/2 piece pear or apple, grated (Optional, adds sweetness and helps tenderize the meat.)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (Adds crunch and aroma.)
- 2 pieces green onions, finely chopped (Enhances flavor and adds color.)
Instructions
- Freeze the beef: Freeze the beef for about 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to slice into thin strips.
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. Whisk until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add grated fruit: If using, add the grated pear or apple to the marinade. This adds sweetness and helps tenderize the meat.
- Marinate the beef: Place the thinly sliced beef into the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat cooking surface: Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the beef: Add the marinated beef in a single layer to the hot grill or skillet. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Garnish and finish: Remove the cooked beef from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions to add crunch and fresh flavor.
- Serve: Serve the Bulgogi immediately with steamed rice, lettuce wraps, or your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Freezing the beef before slicing ensures thin, even strips for better texture and faster cooking.
- Marinating for at least 30 minutes is crucial, but you can marinate up to 24 hours for more intense flavor.
- The grated pear or apple is optional but highly recommended for authentic sweetness and meat tenderness.
- Use a well-marbled cut like ribeye or sirloin to keep the meat juicy and tender.
- If grilling, watch closely to avoid charring due to the sugar content in the marinade.
