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Bulgogi Marinade: The Secret to Perfectly Grilled Korean Beef

  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Korean Bulgogi recipe features tender, marinated beef in a sweet and savory sauce, ideal for grilling or stir-frying. Quick to prepare, it brings authentic Korean flavors to your table, perfect for serving with rice or lettuce wraps.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 4–5 cloves)
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 pound beef (ribeye, sirloin, or brisket), thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce and brown sugar. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  2. Add the sesame oil to the bowl.
  3. Pour in the rice vinegar.
  4. Add the minced garlic and ginger.
  5. Sprinkle in the gochugaru, adjusting to your spice preference.
  6. Stir in the sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
  7. Season with black pepper and mix well.
  8. Choose your beef cut (ribeye, sirloin, or brisket).
  9. Place the beef in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
  10. Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick.
  11. Transfer the sliced beef into a large mixing bowl.
  12. Pour the marinade over the sliced beef, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
  13. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable plastic bag, squeezing out as much air as possible.
  14. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
  15. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Preheat the grill if using.
  16. Add a small amount of oil to the skillet or grill pan.
  17. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Notes

  • For a more authentic flavor, consider grilling the bulgogi outdoors.
  • Serve with steamed rice, lettuce wraps, or as part of a Korean BBQ spread.
  • Adjust the amount of gochugaru based on your spice tolerance.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

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Find it online: https://www.chefstrawberry.com/bulgogi-marinade/