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Recipe for Bulgogi BBQ Beef

Authentic Korean Bulgogi BBQ Beef

This Authentic Korean Bulgogi BBQ Beef is a mouthwatering dish that brings together sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in perfect harmony. What makes this recipe stand out is the traditional marinade that tenderizes the beef while infusing it with rich umami flavor. Whether you're grilling outdoors or using a stovetop skillet, you'll get perfectly caramelized bites every time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Korean
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 417 kcal

Equipment

  • Grill pan or outdoor grill (or substitute with a large skillet or cast iron pan)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Plastic wrap or airtight container (for marinating)

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs 680g ribeye or sirloin beef, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1/2 small Asian pear grated (or substitute with a sweet red apple)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • 1 tbsp rice wine mirin – optional, adds depth
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • Neutral oil vegetable or canola, for cooking

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Beef
    Place the beef in the freezer for 30 minutes to make slicing easier. Slice thinly against the grain, about 1/8 inch thick.
  • Make the Marinade
    In a large mixing bowl, combine grated pear, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, green onions, and rice wine (if using). Mix until well blended.
  • Marinate the Beef
    Add sliced beef to the marinade and massage to coat thoroughly. Cover with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
  • Preheat the Grill or Pan
    Heat a grill pan, cast iron skillet, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
  • Grill the Meat
    Working in batches, lay marinated beef in a single layer. Grill each piece for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and caramelized. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
  • Garnish and Serve
    Top with toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice, lettuce wraps, kimchi, and dipping sauces like ssamjang or gochujang.

Video

Notes

  • Meat Choice: Ribeye offers rich marbling and tenderness. Sirloin or brisket are leaner, still flavorful choices.
  • Fruit in Marinade: Don’t skip the grated pear or apple - this helps tenderize the beef naturally.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in small batches to achieve proper browning and caramelization.
  • Low-Carb Serving Option: Wrap the grilled meat in lettuce leaves with rice and sauce for a lighter option.
  • Extra Tenderness: Add a splash of Coke or Sprite to the marinade for a sweet, tender finish - a common Korean home cooking trick.
Keyword BBQ, Beef, Korean, Marinade