Description
A traditional Korean dish featuring thinly sliced, marinated beef that is grilled or pan-fried until tender and caramelized. It is known for its sweet and savory flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs thinly sliced beef (rib eye or sirloin)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons mirin (rice wine)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the finely chopped onion and mix well.
- Place the thinly sliced beef into the bowl with the marinade. Ensure all the beef slices are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-4 hours, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
- Preheat a grill or a large skillet (cast iron works well) over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface if necessary.
- Remove the beef from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid (discard the remaining marinade).
- Cook the beef in batches, if necessary, to avoid overcrowding the pan. Grill or pan-fry for 2-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the meat is caramelized and cooked through.
- Transfer the cooked bulgogi to a serving platter.
- Garnish with sliced green onion and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately with rice and traditional Korean side dishes (banchan) like kimchi.
Notes
- For the best texture, ask your butcher to thinly slice the beef (about 1/8 inch thick). If slicing at home, partially freeze the beef for 30 minutes to make slicing easier.
- Mirin adds sweetness and depth; if you don’t have it, you can substitute with a small amount of white wine or skip it, adjusting the sugar slightly.
- Bulgogi is excellent served wrapped in lettuce leaves (ssam style) with a dab of ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce).
- The beef can also be cooked in a broiler if you don’t have a grill or large pan.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Korean