Get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Seoul with this irresistible Beef Bulgogi recipe! This legendary Korean dish is about to turn your kitchen into a sizzling flavor paradise that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine tender, perfectly marinated beef with a sweet and savory glaze that melts in your mouth, promising a culinary experience that's both exotic and comforting.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Korean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the beef sirloin. If it's not already thinly sliced, place the beef in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to slice. Once firm, slice the beef against the grain into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick.
- In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is fully dissolved. This will be your marinade.
- Add the sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the beef to a resealable plastic bag. Allow the beef to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- While the beef is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Slice the onion into thin strips and chop the green onions. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef to the pan in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the beef in batches.
- Cook the beef for about 3-4 minutes without stirring, allowing it to get a nice sear. Then, stir the beef and add the sliced onion to the pan. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the beef is cooked through and the onions are tender.
- Once the beef is fully cooked, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the chopped green onions, mixing them into the beef for added flavor and color.
- To serve, transfer the beef bulgogi to a serving platter. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for garnish. Serve hot with steamed rice, lettuce leaves for wrapping, and your choice of side dishes such as kimchi or pickled vegetables.
- Enjoy your homemade Beef Bulgogi Korean BBQ Beef!
Tips
- Freezing Trick: Partially freeze your beef for 30 minutes before slicing to achieve those picture-perfect thin strips with ease.
- Marination Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. Let the beef soak up those delicious flavors for at least 20 minutes, but no more than 2 hours to maintain the meat's texture.
- Cooking Technique: Use a very hot skillet and avoid overcrowding. This ensures a beautiful sear and prevents the meat from steaming instead of browning.
- Slice Against the Grain: Always slice the beef against the grain to guarantee maximum tenderness.
- Garnish Game: Don't skip the sesame seeds! They add a nutty flavor and beautiful presentation that elevates the entire dish.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with steamed rice, wrap in fresh lettuce leaves, or serve with traditional Korean side dishes like kimchi for an authentic experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
