Frequently Asked Questions
What is Authentic Korean BBQ Short Ribs (Galbi)?
Galbi is a traditional Korean dish featuring tender beef short ribs, cut flanken-style, and marinated in a sweet and savory sauce.
What cut of beef is used for this Galbi recipe?
This recipe uses beef short ribs cut in a flanken style, which means they are sliced across the bones.
How long should I marinate the short ribs?
For the best flavor and tenderness, the ribs should be refrigerated in the marinade for 24 hours.
What is the purpose of the Korean pear in the marinade?
The Korean pear acts as a natural meat tenderizer due to its enzymes and adds a subtle, authentic sweetness.
Why is Sprite included in the Galbi marinade?
Sprite helps to tenderize the meat and adds sweetness and carbonation that helps the marinade penetrate the ribs.
Can I substitute the Korean pear if I cannot find one?
If a Korean pear is unavailable, you can substitute it with a Bosc pear or a sweet apple like Fuji.
How much soy sauce is required for the marinade?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of soy sauce to create a rich, savory base.
How long do I cook the ribs on the grill?
Grill the short ribs for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned.
What heat setting should I use for grilling Galbi?
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to achieve a good sear without burning the sugars in the marinade.
Is there honey in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe uses 1/2 cup of honey to add a deep, natural sweetness to the marinade.
What kind of oil is used in the marinade?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of sesame oil, which provides a characteristic nutty aroma and flavor.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
You will need 10 cloves of garlic, minced, to provide a robust savory flavor.
How should the green onions be prepared?
The green onions should be trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces before being added to the marinade.
Can I use a food processor for the pear?
Yes, you should pulverize the Korean pear in a blender or food processor until it reaches a smooth puree consistency.
How many calories are in a serving of this Galbi?
Each serving contains approximately 540 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 36 grams of fat in one serving of these Korean BBQ short ribs.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving provides 20 grams of protein.
What should I serve with Korean BBQ Short Ribs?
It is traditionally served hot off the grill paired with steamed rice and kimchi for a complete meal.
Do I need to let the meat rest after cooking?
Yes, let the ribs rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.
What type of sugar is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1.5 cups of light brown sugar for a rich, caramelized flavor.
Is rice wine necessary for the marinade?
Yes, 1/3 cup of rice wine is used to help tenderize the meat and balance the flavors.
How much black pepper should I add?
The recipe includes 1 tablespoon of black pepper in the marinade.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 main ingredients used to make the ribs and the marinade.
Should I discard the marinade after use?
Yes, once the ribs are removed for grilling, the used marinade should be discarded for safety reasons.
Are sesame seeds used in the recipe?
Yes, 1/2 cup of sesame seeds are mixed into the marinade for texture and flavor.
Can I make this recipe in a deep dish?
Yes, you can marinate the ribs in either a large zip-top bag or a deep dish, as long as they are fully submerged.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
There are 32 grams of carbohydrates in each serving.
How long does it take to prep the marinade?
Prep involves mixing liquid ingredients and pureeing the pear, which takes only a few minutes before the 24-hour marinating process.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
While designed for Galbi, this authentic marinade would also work well with other cuts of beef or pork.
What gives this recipe its authentic flavor?
The combination of Korean pear, soy sauce, sesame oil, and the long 24-hour marinating time provides its authentic taste.