Korean Bulgogi: A Sweet and Savory BBQ Classic



How to Make Korean Bulgogi – Sweet and Savory Perfection

Ready to taste the magic of Korea's favorite BBQ? Let’s make Bulgogi (불고기), the irresistible blend of soy, garlic, and grilled meat that has won hearts around the world.

🥩 What is Bulgogi?

Bulgogi, meaning "fire meat", is a Korean dish made of thinly sliced marinated beef. It’s known for its juicy, sweet-savory flavor that comes from soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and a hint of fruit. Bulgogi is quick to cook and great for beginners!

🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 500g (1 lb) thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin
  • 1/2 onion, sliced
  • 1/2 carrot, julienned (optional)
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds

🌟 For the Marinade

  • 4 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp grated pear or apple (helps tenderize)
  • Black pepper to taste

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions (Beginner-Friendly)

  1. Slice the meat (if needed)
    If your beef isn't pre-sliced, cut it thinly across the grain. This helps it cook fast and absorb flavor well.
  2. Prepare the vegetables
    Slice onion and green onion. Julienne carrot if using.
  3. Make the marinade
    In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, grated pear (or apple), and black pepper. Stir until sugar dissolves.
  4. Marinate
    Add beef and vegetables to the marinade. Mix everything well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (2–4 hours is better).
  5. Heat your pan
    Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface if needed.
  6. Cook the bulgogi
    Add the marinated meat in a single layer. Let it cook for 1–2 minutes without stirring. Then stir-fry until browned and caramelized. Cook in batches if needed.
  7. Garnish and serve
    Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onion on top. Serve with warm rice, lettuce wraps, or in a bun with kimchi for a bulgogi sandwich!

🔍 Tips for Success

  • Use thin cuts: Thin meat absorbs more flavor and cooks faster.
  • Don’t skip the fruit: Pear or apple helps tenderize naturally.
  • Grill if you can: Adds smoky flavor like Korean BBQ restaurants.

🍽 Variations You Can Try

  • Chicken Bulgogi: Use chicken thighs or breast instead of beef.
  • Tofu Bulgogi: Pressed tofu slices work great for vegetarians.
  • Bulgogi Burger: Put cooked bulgogi in a bun with slaw and kimchi.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Leftover bulgogi can be kept in the fridge for 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in a pan over low heat or microwave with a cover.

Can’t find Korean BBQ sauce, pear juice, or ribeye near you?
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Want more Korean favorites? Try Kimchi Jjigae or Korean Fried Chicken next!

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