What is Bulgogi
Bulgogi is a popular Korean dish which consists of thinly sliced beef marinated in a flavorful sauce and typically grilled on a barbecue. A grill pan can be used instead of a barbecue or even a cast iron pan. I decided to cook my bulgogi using a cast iron pan and the dish came out tender and flavorful.
In this recipe, the beef is first marinated in a mixture of onion, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, pepper flakes, ground pepper, toasted sesame seeds and green onions. After marinating the beef for at least 30 minutes, the slices of beef are cooked in batches on a cast iron pan until browned. Finally, the delicious slices of beef are transferred to a serving plate and garnished with chopped green onions and served with steamed rice. The dish turned out better than I imagined. It’s a tender, tasty and flavorful dish that I will definitely be making again!
Cooking Tips
For the best bulgogi, slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness. Keep your marinade simple but flavorful; let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or longer if you have time. If you want to add some extra flavor, consider including a bit of pear or apple in the marinade, as it adds a nice sweetness that complements the beef well.
Serving Suggestions
Bulgogi is versatile and can be served in various ways. Try serving it over a bed of rice for a filling meal, or wrap the beef in lettuce leaves with some rice and gochujang for a fresh bite. Pair it with kimchi and pickled vegetables for a traditional touch. It also works great in tacos or as a filling for sandwiches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of meat works best for bulgogi?
Rib eye, sirloin, or tenderloin are the best choices for bulgogi. These cuts are tender and slice easily, making them perfect for marinating and quick cooking.
Can I make bulgogi ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the beef a day in advance. Just keep it stored in the fridge to let those flavors really soak in.
What can I use instead of Asian pear in the marinade?
If you don’t have Asian pear, you can use a bit of grated apple or even a splash of pineapple juice for some sweetness. Just be mindful of the sugar in the recipe, as you might want to cut back a bit.
How do I store leftover bulgogi?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
What do I serve bulgogi with?
Bulgogi pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and some fresh veggies. You can also serve it with lettuce leaves for wrapping or alongside kimchi for an extra kick.
Bulgogi
flavorful sauce and typically grilled on a barbecue.
Ingredients
- 1 small onion , thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic , grated
- ½ tsp grated ginger
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp sugar
- ¼ tsp crushed pepper flakes
- 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp roasted sesame seeds
- 1 green onion , chopped
- 12 oz thinly sliced rib eye
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a medium glass bowl, combine the onion, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, pepper flakes, ground pepper, sesame seeds and green onion. Add the sliced beef and, using your fingers, gently coat the beef with the marinade. Cover with plastic wrap and then place in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- In a cast iron pan, heat the oil over medium high heat. Add the beef and cook in batches, until browned and cooked through, about 2 minutes per batch.
- Transfer to a serving plate and then garnish with chopped green onion. Serve with steamed rice.
Notes
Nutrition
So good!