Beef Bulgogi is a classic Korean dish celebrated for its succulent, marinated beef with a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors. This dish features thinly sliced beef steeped in a delicious marinade comprising soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and Asian pear, then cooked to perfection. Bulgogi is not only delectable but also straightforward to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both quick weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin recommended)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 Asian pear, grated
- 1 tablespoon mirin (or rice wine)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: 1 carrot, cut into matchsticks
- Vegetable oil for cooking
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated pear, mirin, and ginger to create the marinade.
- Place the beef slices in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for enhanced flavor, leave it overnight in the refrigerator.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface.
- If using onions and carrots, add them to the pan first, sautéing until slightly softened.
- Add the marinated beef to the pan in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary. Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s fully cooked and has a nice caramelization.
- Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 25g
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 40 minutes (including marinating)
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings
- Serves 4 people
Bulgogi is wonderfully versatile and pairs excellently with steamed rice, wrapped in lettuce, or even as a topping for stir-fried noodles. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the rich flavors of Korean cuisine in the comfort of your home. Bon appétit
