Bulgogi

Are you looking for a quick and easy comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds? Then we've got you covered with this authentic Korean beef bulgogi recipe.

With minimal prep time, this Korean BBQ dish cooks just as quickly to ensure you have a fulfilling and flavorful meal in a flash.

So, if your typical quick and easy recipes just aren't cutting anymore, then maybe it's time to try something new. Ready in under 40 minutes, this Korean bulgogi is the perfect dish to try tonight!

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This bulgogi recipe works because it embodies the essence of traditional Korean comfort food, offering rich, savory flavors that are both nostalgic and satisfying. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic creates a harmonious marinade that deeply infuses the meat, delivering an authentic taste.

Additionally, it's a quick and easy recipe to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and short marinating time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Bulgogi is also incredibly versatile: it can be made with various meats or vegetarian options like tofu and mushrooms, and the marinade can be adjusted to suit personal tastes and dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious Korean BBQ dish.

Ingredients

Soy Sauce:

Soy sauce is used as the base for bulgogi marinade because it imparts a deep, savory umami flavor essential for authentic Korean BBQ. It also tenderizes the meat. If soy sauce is unavailable or for a gluten-free alternative, tamari can be used, offering a similar taste profile. For a soy-free option, coconut aminos provide a slightly sweeter flavor while maintaining the umami richness.

Brown Sugar:

Brown sugar is used in bulgogi marinade for its rich, molasses-like sweetness, which balances the salty soy sauce and helps caramelize the meat during cooking. If brown sugar is unavailable, honey, coconut sugar, white sugar, maple syrup, or agave syrup can be used as substitutes.

Sesame Oil:

Sesame oil is used in bulgogi marinade for its distinctive, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste profile and adds depth to the dish. It also contributes a subtle aroma characteristic of Korean cuisine. If sesame oil is unavailable, toasted peanut oil or walnut oil can be used as substitutes, providing a similar nutty richness.

Garlic and Ginger:

Ginger and garlic are essential in bulgogi marinade for their aromatic, pungent flavors, which add depth and complexity to the dish. Ginger provides a fresh, slightly spicy note that balances the sweetness, while garlic contributes a robust, savory flavor that enhances the overall umami profile. Other aromatics that can be used include shallots for a sweet, subtle flavor, or lemongrass for a citrusy, aromatic twist.

Red Pepper Flakes:

Red pepper flakes are added to this marinade for a bit of spice without being too overwhelming. However, you can add or reduce the amount used depending on your preference for heat. You can also kick up with heat with some added Thai chilies, sriracha, or gochujang.

Asian Pear:

Grated Asian pear, acts as a natural tenderizer and adds a subtle sweetness to the marinade, enhancing the overall flavor of the bulgogi. If you don't have an Asian pear, you can substitute it with a regular pear or a small amount of apple. Both provide sweetness and help tenderize the meat.

Flank Steak:

Flank steak is ideal for bulgogi due to its lean texture and ability to absorb the marinade deeply, resulting in flavorful, tender meat. Its thin slices cook quickly and evenly, perfect for high-heat grilling. If you prefer a non-beef option, chicken thighs or pork tenderloin can be used. Both alternatives are tender and absorb the bulgogi marinade well, providing a delicious variation while maintaining the dish's signature flavors. Tofu or mushrooms are excellent vegetarian substitutes, offering a satisfying texture and absorbing the marinade's rich taste.

Green Onions:

Fresh green onions are added at the very end for some added freshness and for their mild flavor. Alternatively, you can garnish your homemade with chives, basil, or lemongrass.

How to Make Bulgogi

Step One: 

Add soy sauce, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, and Asian pear to a bowl and stir to incorporate.

Step Two: 

Marinate the flank steak in the sauce for at least 30 minutes.

Step Three: 

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.

Step Four:

Add the marinated steak to the pan and cook until browned.

Step Five: 

Stir in green onions and remove from heat.

Step Six: 

Serve topped with extra sesame seeds, and enjoy!

Tips

• Slightly freeze the beef before slicing. This makes it easier to cut those thin, even slices, which are essential for traditional bulgogi.
• Taste the bulgogi marinade before adding the beef, and adjust the sweetness or saltiness according to your preference.
• When cooking the beef, do not overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and proper caramelization.

What to Serve With Bulgogi

When serving authentic Korean beef bulgogi, it's best to complement the savory flavors with traditional Korean side dishes. A classic pairing is steamed white rice, which is great for soaking up all the rich and flavorful bulgogi marinade, while a crunchy cucumber salad will bring some added nutrients and color to the table. For added freshness and texture, allow diners to create their own bulgogi lettuce wraps with rice and additional toppings such as pickled radishes, or ginger. 

Need more ideas? Check out What To Serve with Bulgogi for 15 delicious options.

FAQs

Is authentic bulgogi spicy?

Traditional bulgogi is not spicy. However, if you want to add some heat to your bulgogi, you can add some gochujang or extra red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Can I add some vegetables to my bulgogi?

You can absolutely add some vegetables to your bulgogi to make it more fulfilling and nutrient-dense. Some common additions include sliced onions, bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms. These can be marinated along with the beef or cooked separately and mixed in later.

For how long can leftover bulgogi be kept fresh?

Leftover cooked bulgogi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

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