Korean BBQ Beef Bulgogi
Korean BBQ Beef Bulgogi is a flavorful and savory dish made with tender marinated beef cooked in a rich sweet-and-salty Korean-inspired sauce. This easy dinner recipe is perfect for weeknight meals, family dinners, and homemade takeout-style comfort food.
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 1 lb (450 g) beef ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 carrot, julienned (optional)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Marinade:
- 4 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
- 2 tbsp rice wine (mirin)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Asian pear or apple, grated (acts as tenderizer)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Place beef in the freezer for 30 minutes before slicing to make thin cuts easier. Slice beef very thinly against the grain.
- Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice wine, sesame oil, grated pear, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate the Beef: Add sliced beef, onion, carrot, and green onions to the marinade. Mix thoroughly so every slice is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (2 hours is best).
- Cook the Bulgogi: Heat a grill pan, cast iron skillet, or wok over high heat. Add marinated beef in a single layer (don’t overcrowd). Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through. Repeat in batches.
- Finish and Garnish: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top. Garnish with fresh chopped green onions.