Kalbi Korean BBQ Short Ribs: A Tender, Sweet & Savory Grilling Sensation

Authentic Kalbi Korean BBQ Short Ribs – Sweet & Savory Perfection

Experience the irresistible flavor of kalbi Korean BBQ with this authentic recipe that brings the vibrant taste of Korean barbecue right to your home. These succulent beef short ribs are marinated in a perfect blend of sweet and savory ingredients, then grilled to caramelized perfection for that distinctive Korean barbecue flavor that’s impossible to resist.

What Makes Kalbi Korean BBQ Special?

Kalbi (also spelled “galbi”) is one of Korea’s most beloved barbecue dishes. What sets it apart is the unique cut of beef – flanken-style short ribs where the bones are cut thin across the ribs rather than between them. This cut allows the sweet soy marinade to penetrate deeply, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that cooks quickly on the grill.

Ingredients for Authentic Kalbi Short Ribs

• 3 pounds beef short ribs, cut flanken style (1/2 inch thick across bones)
• 3/4 cup soy sauce
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup rice wine (mirin)
• 1/4 cup sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 small Asian pear, peeled and finely grated
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Serving (Optional)

• Steamed white rice
• Kimchi
• Lettuce leaves for wrapping
• Ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce)
• Additional sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds

The Secret to Tenderizing Kalbi Ribs

The Asian pear in this recipe isn’t just for flavor – it contains natural enzymes that help break down the meat proteins, resulting in incredibly tender ribs. If you can’t find Asian pears, you can substitute with a ripe Bosc pear or even a sweet apple.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Kalbi Korean BBQ

1. Prepare the ribs: If your butcher hasn’t already done so, ask them to cut the short ribs flanken-style (across the bones) to about 1/2 inch thickness. Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

2. Make the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice wine, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated Asian pear, sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved.

3. Marinate the ribs: Place the ribs in a large, shallow dish or a ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the ribs, making sure all surfaces are coated. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, turning occasionally for even marination.

4. Prepare for cooking: Remove the ribs from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. This helps them cook more evenly.

5. Grill the kalbi: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F). Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely charred and caramelized on the outside while still juicy inside. The thin cut cooks quickly, so watch them carefully!

6. Rest and serve: Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Cooking Tips for Restaurant-Quality Kalbi

• Score the meat: Make shallow cuts across the grain on both sides of the meat to help the marinade penetrate better and prevent the meat from curling during cooking.
• Don’t overcook: Because flanken-cut ribs are thin, they cook quickly. They’re best served medium (slightly pink in the center).
• Indoor option: No grill? Use a grill pan or cast iron skillet on high heat to achieve those beautiful char marks.
• Watch for flare-ups: The sugar in the marinade can cause flare-ups. Keep a spray bottle of water handy to control them.

How to Serve Your Kalbi Korean BBQ

In Korean tradition, kalbi is often served as part of a larger meal with numerous side dishes (banchan). Here are some authentic serving suggestions:

• Ssam-style: Wrap pieces of kalbi in lettuce leaves with a smear of ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce) and a bit of rice.
• Traditional plating: Serve alongside steamed rice, kimchi, and other banchan like pickled vegetables or spinach namul.
• Family style: Place all the components in the center of the table and let everyone create their own perfect bite.

Nutrition Information

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips for Kalbi Korean BBQ

One of the beauties of kalbi Korean BBQ is that it’s perfect for meal prep:

• Make-ahead: The ribs can marinate for up to 24 hours, making this a great prep-ahead meal for entertaining.
• Freezing: You can freeze the ribs in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Leftovers: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re delicious reheated or even cold in a salad.

Why You’ll Love This Kalbi Korean BBQ Recipe

This kalbi Korean BBQ recipe delivers restaurant-quality Korean barbecue with minimal effort. The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors combined with the tender, juicy texture of the short ribs makes this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special occasions.

Recipe adapted from: Allrecipes