Authentic Korean Bulgogi - Grilled Marinated Beef
This Authentic Korean Bulgogi recipe is a cherished family favorite, passed down from a dear family friend—a talented Korean cook who captivated our taste buds with her culinary skills. The combination of thinly sliced beef marinated in a rich blend of savory soy sauce, sweet sugar, and aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering experience. Perfectly grilled, this dish is a delightful mix of tender meat and caramelized vegetables, bringing a taste of Korea right to your table. Whether prepared over charcoal or in a frying pan, Bulgogi is sure to impress your family and friends while delivering an unforgettable flavor that warms the heart.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Beef
1 1/4 lbs (Thinly sliced (less than 1/8-inch))
Onion
1 medium (Sliced)
Soy Sauce
5 tablespoons ( )
Sugar
2 1/2 tablespoons ( )
Green Onions
4 tablespoons (Chopped)
Garlic
2 tablespoons (Minced)
Sesame Seeds
2 tablespoons ( )
Sesame Oil
2 tablespoons ( )
Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon ( )
Kiwi Fruit
1 (Minced (optional))
Instructions
1
Start by slicing the onion into thin rings and set aside.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, sugar, chopped green onions, minced garlic, sesame seeds, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are well blended.
3
Add the thinly sliced beef and the sliced onion into the marinade. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure that the meat and onions are evenly coated with the marinade.
4
For an enhanced flavor, if using, stir in the minced kiwi fruit, which adds a natural sweetness and tenderizes the meat further.
5
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a resealable bag. Let the mixture marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours. For best results, marinate overnight to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
6
Before cooking, taste the marinade and adjust the sweetness or saltiness by adding more sugar or soy sauce, if desired.
7
To cook, preheat your grill or frying pan over medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are hot and glowing.
8
Cook the marinated beef and onions until they are charred and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. If using a frying pan, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring even cooking and browning.
9
Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for a minute. Serve with rice and your favorite side dishes, garnishing with additional sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Authentic Korean Bulgogi?
It is a traditional Korean dish featuring thinly sliced beef marinated in a savory and sweet blend of soy sauce, sugar, and aromatics, then grilled or pan-fried.
What type of meat is used in this Bulgogi recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 1/4 lbs of beef, specifically sliced thinner than 1/8-inch.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 2 people.
How long should the beef marinate?
The meat should marinate for at least 1-2 hours, though for best results, marinating overnight is recommended.
What are the primary ingredients in the marinade?
The marinade consists of soy sauce, sugar, green onions, garlic, sesame seeds, sesame oil, and black pepper.
Why is kiwi fruit included in the instructions?
Minced kiwi fruit is an optional addition that adds natural sweetness and serves as a natural meat tenderizer.
How should I prepare the onion for Bulgogi?
One medium onion should be sliced into thin rings and mixed directly into the marinade with the beef.
Can I cook Bulgogi if I don't have a grill?
Yes, you can use a frying pan over medium-high heat if a charcoal or gas grill is not available.
What temperature should be used for cooking?
The beef should be cooked over medium-high heat to ensure proper charring and even browning.
How long does the beef take to cook?
The marinated beef and onions typically take about 3-4 minutes to cook per side.
Should I cook all the meat at once in a pan?
It is best to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which ensures even cooking and better browning.
What is the best way to serve Bulgogi?
It is traditionally served with rice and various side dishes, garnished with extra sesame seeds and green onions.
Can I adjust the flavor of the marinade?
Yes, you can taste the marinade before cooking and add more sugar for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness if desired.
How much soy sauce is required?
The recipe requires 5 tablespoons of soy sauce.
How much garlic is used in the marinade?
You will need 2 tablespoons of minced garlic.
Is sesame oil used in this dish?
Yes, 2 tablespoons of sesame oil are used to provide an aromatic flavor.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized under Meat.
Is this a traditional recipe?
Yes, it is described as an authentic family favorite passed down from a talented Korean cook.
Does the recipe use black pepper?
Yes, it uses 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper in the marinade.
How many green onions are needed?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of chopped green onions.
What amount of sugar is used?
The recipe uses 2 1/2 tablespoons of sugar.
Are sesame seeds used for more than just the marinade?
Yes, in addition to the 2 tablespoons in the marinade, they can be used as a garnish for the finished dish.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include bulgogi, korean bbq, grilled beef, marinated meat, and asian cuisine among others.
Is Bulgogi considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food and described as a dish that warms the heart.
Can I use a charcoal grill?
Yes, a charcoal grill is recommended for a great charred flavor; ensure the coals are hot and glowing before cooking.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to slice the onion into thin rings.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 ingredients in total, including the optional kiwi fruit.
Is there nutritional information available for this recipe?
According to the provided data, specific nutritional values like calories, fat, and protein are not listed.
Should the beef be rested after cooking?
Yes, the instructions suggest letting the meat rest for a minute after removing it from the heat.
How should the marinade components be mixed?
Combine the ingredients in a large bowl and mix until the sugar is fully dissolved and all items are well blended.