Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible flavors of Korean BBQ Beef Bulgogi! This dish is a culinary adventure that brings the vibrant essence of Korean cuisine right to your kitchen. With its tender, marinated beef and a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes, Bulgogi is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into the world of Korean BBQ and discover how easy it is to create this mouthwatering dish in just 45 minutes!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Korean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the beef sirloin. If it’s not already thinly sliced, place the beef in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to slice. Once firm, slice the beef against the grain into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick.
- In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Whisk the mixture together until the sugar is fully dissolved. This will be your marinade.
- Add the sliced beef and the sliced onion to the marinade. Ensure that all the beef is well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours.
- While the beef is marinating, prepare your cooking area. If you have a grill or a grill pan, preheat it over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, heat it over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Once the grill or skillet is hot, remove the beef from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Reserve the marinade for later use.
- Add the marinated beef and onions to the hot grill or skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the meat instead of searing it. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side without moving it, allowing it to get a nice sear.
- Flip the beef and onions and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the beef is cooked through and slightly caramelized. If you like your beef a little crispy, you can cook it for an extra minute or two.
- While the beef is cooking, you can heat the reserved marinade in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly. This will be used as a sauce to drizzle over the finished dish.
- Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the heat and transfer it to a serving platter. Drizzle the heated marinade over the top.
- Garnish the beef bulgogi with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice, lettuce leaves for wrapping, and any additional sides like kimchi or pickled vegetables.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: For the best texture and flavor, use beef sirloin or ribeye. The marbling in these cuts will enhance the juiciness of your Bulgogi.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: While 30 minutes is sufficient, marinating the beef for up to 2 hours (or even overnight) will deepen the flavors and make the meat even more tender.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking, make sure to give the beef enough space in the pan. Overcrowding will steam the meat instead of searing it, which can result in a less desirable texture.
- Use a Grill Pan for Authenticity: If you have a grill pan, use it! The grill marks and slight char will add to the authentic BBQ experience.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the garnish! A sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh crunch.
- Serve with Sides: Bulgogi pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, lettuce leaves for wrapping, and traditional sides like kimchi or pickled vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg
