Korean beef, or Bulgogi (불고기), is a beloved Korean dish known for its tender, juicy meat and sweet and savory marinade. It’s incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways – from grilling to stir-frying or even wrapping it in lettuce leaves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Tender: The marinade infuses the beef with incredible flavor, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and cooking time makes it perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Versatile: Can be served with rice, noodles, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a healthy option.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your preference.
Ingredients:
- For the Beef:
- 1 pound thinly sliced beef (flank steak, skirt steak, or ribeye)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pear juice or apple juice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) – adjust to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Beef: In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. Add the beef slices and toss to coat evenly. Cover in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Beef: Heat a grill, grill pan, or large skillet over medium-high heat. Grill or cook the beef for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked beef to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like steamed rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps.
Nutritional Value (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
| Calories | 200-250 |
| Protein | 25-30g |
| Fat | 5-10g |
| Carbohydrates | 5-10g |
| Fiber | 1-2g |
| Sodium | 300-400mg |
Note: Nutritional values will vary depending on the specific cuts of beef and serving size.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- What is gochujang? Gochujang is a fermented Korean chili paste that adds a sweet and spicy flavor.
- Can I use a different type of meat? yes, While beef is traditional, you can use pork or chicken as well.
- How can I make it spicier? Add more gochujang or a dash of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- What are some good side dishes for Korean beef? Steamed rice, kimchi, and pickled vegetables are classic pairings.
- Can I marinate the beef overnight? Yes, you can marinate the beef overnight in the refrigerator.
Enjoy this delicious and flavorful Korean beef!