International Cuisine > Korean Cuisine > Main Dishes (Korean) > Bulgogi Recipe

Classic Korean Bulgogi

Bulgogi, meaning 'fire meat', is a popular Korean dish made from thin, marinated slices of beef. This recipe offers a delicious and authentic Bulgogi experience, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. It's known for its sweet and savory flavor and tender texture. Enjoy!

Prep Time
20 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 2 hours marinating)
Cook Time
10-15 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 500 g Beef sirloin or ribeye
  • 6 tbsp Soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp Brown sugar
  • 1/2 Asian pear (or apple), grated
  • 1/4 Onion, grated
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Ginger, minced
  • 1 tbsp Sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper
  • 2 Green onions, sliced
  • 1 tbsp Sesame seeds

Preparing the Beef

Begin by thinly slicing the beef against the grain. This is crucial for achieving the characteristic tenderness of Bulgogi. If the beef is partially frozen, it will be easier to slice thinly. Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick.

Making the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, grated Asian pear (or apple), grated onion, minced garlic, minced ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved. The enzymes in the pear help to tenderize the meat.

Marinating the Beef

Add the sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Gently massage the marinade into the beef. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor. Longer marinating times will result in a more tender and flavorful Bulgogi.

Cooking the Bulgogi

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the beef is cooked through and slightly caramelized. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Serving the Bulgogi

Remove the cooked Bulgogi from the pan and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately with rice, lettuce wraps, and various Korean side dishes (banchan). Bulgogi is traditionally eaten wrapped in lettuce leaves with a dab of ssamjang (Korean fermented bean paste).

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 200-250kcal, Protein: 20-25g, Fat: 10-15g, Carbohydrates: 5-10g. These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

Consider using low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium content. The sugar content can be adjusted based on your preference. Serving with plenty of vegetables, like lettuce wraps and banchan, can balance the meal nutritionally. If you have any dietary restrictions, adjust ingredients accordingly.

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FAQ

  • Can I use a different cut of beef?

    Yes, you can use other tender cuts of beef such as flank steak or skirt steak. Ensure the beef is sliced thinly for best results.
  • Can I marinate the beef overnight?

    While you can marinate the beef overnight, it's not recommended to marinate it for longer than 2 hours, as the enzymes in the marinade can make the beef too soft.
  • What if I don't have Asian pear?

    You can substitute with a regular apple or even kiwi fruit. These fruits contain enzymes that help tenderize the meat.