Korean Galbi is one of the most beloved dishes in Korean cuisine, known for its tender beef short ribs marinated in a deeply flavorful blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sugar, and fruit. Traditionally prepared with flanken-cut beef ribs, galbi is grilled until caramelized and smoky, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors.

This dish is often served at Korean barbecues and family celebrations, where it brings people together around the grill. Rich in tradition and bold in taste, Korean Galbi is both comforting and impressive, making it a standout dish for special occasions or memorable home-cooked meals.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because the marinade transforms a tough cut of meat into something incredibly tender and flavorful. The natural sweetness from fruit paired with savory soy sauce and garlic creates a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. Watching the ribs caramelize on the grill while releasing their aroma is one of the most satisfying parts of cooking this dish.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it represents the heart of Korean barbecue culture. It is rich, balanced, and unforgettable in flavor. Whether you grill outdoors or cook indoors, galbi offers restaurant-quality results at home and introduces you to authentic Korean flavors in a truly delicious way.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 4–8 hours
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: About 4½ hours
Servings: 4
Calories (Approx.): 520 per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Korean

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 2 pounds beef short ribs, flanken-cut

For the Galbi Marinade

• ½ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup mirin or rice wine
• 1 Asian pear or apple, grated
• 1 small onion, grated
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnish

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions

Cooking Directions

Prepare the Ribs
Rinse the beef ribs under cold water to remove bone fragments. Soak briefly if desired, then pat dry.

Make the Marinade
Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, grated fruit, onion, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and pepper in a bowl.

Marinate the Beef
Place ribs in a large container, pour marinade over, and ensure all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate.

Cook the Galbi
Grill over medium-high heat or cook in a grill pan until ribs are caramelized and cooked through.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Clean the Ribs
Rinse and soak ribs briefly to ensure clean flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
Mix all marinade ingredients thoroughly.

Step 3: Marinate
Refrigerate ribs for several hours for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Preheat Cooking Surface
Heat grill or pan to medium-high.

Step 5: Grill the Ribs
Cook ribs, turning often, until nicely charred and tender.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Korean Galbi hot with steamed white rice, lettuce leaves for wrapping, and traditional Korean side dishes such as kimchi, pickled radish, and seasoned spinach. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for added freshness.

Recipe Tips

• Use Asian pear for authentic sweetness and tenderizing.
• Do not overcook to avoid drying out the ribs.
• Turn ribs frequently to prevent burning.
• Marinate overnight for best flavor.
• Grill over charcoal for smoky depth.

Variations

Spicy Galbi
Add gochujang or chili flakes to the marinade.

Oven-Baked Galbi
Bake ribs at high heat, finishing under the broiler.

Boneless Galbi
Use boneless short ribs for easier eating.

Honey Galbi
Replace some sugar with honey for deeper sweetness.

Slow-Cooked Galbi
Braise ribs slowly for fall-off-the-bone texture.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store cooked galbi for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze marinated uncooked ribs for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently on a grill or skillet.

Special Equipment Needed

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Airtight container for marinating

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of beef is best for galbi?
Flanken-cut beef short ribs are traditional and ideal.

Can I cook galbi indoors?
Yes, a grill pan or broiler works well.

Why add fruit to the marinade?
Fruit tenderizes the meat and adds natural sweetness.

Is galbi very sweet?
It is balanced with savory and umami flavors.

Can I reuse the marinade?
No, discard used marinade for food safety.

Conclusion

Korean Galbi is a flavorful celebration of Korean barbecue tradition, combining tender beef with a perfectly balanced marinade. Its sweet, savory, and smoky profile makes it unforgettable and deeply satisfying. Whether prepared for a special gathering or a memorable family meal, this dish delivers bold flavor, cultural richness, and pure comfort in every bite.