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–+ servings

Ultimate Korean BBQ Marinade for Bulgogi

Create authentic, restaurant-quality bulgogi at home with this perfect Korean BBQ marinade recipe. The sweet-savory blend transforms simple beef slices into an irresistible Korean barbecue experience.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 226
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • ⅓ cup soy sauce low-sodium preferred
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 3 green onions finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • ½ Asian pear grated (or 2 tablespoons apple juice as substitute)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon gochugaru Korean red pepper flakes - optional
  • 2 pounds thinly sliced beef ribeye, sirloin, or other tender cuts

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, sesame seeds, grated Asian pear, black pepper, and gochugaru (if using).
  2. Whisk all marinade ingredients thoroughly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  3. Add thinly sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. For best results, use your hands (with gloves) to massage the marinade into the meat.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally 4-24 hours for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your bulgogi will be.
  5. When ready to cook, remove beef from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
  6. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over high heat until very hot. Cook beef in small batches to avoid overcrowding (which would steam rather than sear the meat).
  7. Cook each batch for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until meat is caramelized on the edges and cooked to your preferred doneness.
  8. Garnish with additional chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 226kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 21gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 49mgSodium: 844mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8g
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