Beef Bulgogi is a very quick and easy recipe and it can be put together in under 30 minutes. If you are craving Korean food, you can make it at home very easily. My son likes Korean food, and I make it often and decided to share it with you as well. Pair it with boiled rice and your delicious meal is ready in no time. Bulgogi is a Korean BBQ meat, marinated with sweet-savory soy sauce and grilled to give the caramelized flavor. I made this easy Beef Bulgogi with minced beef instead of steak and cooked it on high flame with a sweet and savory sauce to achieve a similar flavor.
Ingredients of Beef Bulgogi
Beef
I used minced beef for this recipe, but this dish is traditionally made with high-quality cuts of steak such as sirloin or ribeye, which provide a richer flavor and more tender texture. When preparing Beef Bulgogi, it’s important to consider the quality of the meat, as it significantly impacts the overall dish.
Garlic
For the best results, use fresh garlic, as pre-minced garlic will not give the same depth of flavor. Freshly minced garlic not only enhances the taste but also adds a delightful aroma when cooked, making the dish more appetizing.
Vinegar
You can use rice wine vinegar for a milder taste, but I opted for the regular vinegar I had in my pantry, which worked perfectly fine. The acidity of the vinegar is crucial as it helps tenderize the meat and adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the beef.
Soy sauce
Using a good quality soy sauce is essential, as it gives this dish its hallmark saltiness while contributing a depth of umami flavor that elevates the entire meal. Opting for low-sodium varieties can also help control the saltiness level if desired.
Sugar
A couple of spoons of white or brown sugar help balance the saltiness of the soy sauce and the sourness of the vinegar, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Brown sugar adds a subtle molasses flavor, which can enhance the overall taste profile of the dish.
Sesame oil
I used a small quantity of sesame oil in this recipe, which brings a nutty aroma and distinct flavor to the dish. It’s a good idea to invest in a bottle of good quality sesame oil, especially if you enjoy making Korean food often, as it can be used in various recipes to enhance flavors further.
What to eat with Beef Bulgogi?
I served Beef Bulgogi on a bed of fluffy white rice, making for a satisfying and delicious meal. You can also pair it with a variety of side dishes like kimchi, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors of the bulgogi.
How to store Beef Bulgogi?
I store Beef Bulgogi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or in a freezer for a few weeks. Simply reheat it in the microwave once ready to eat, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this Korean classic all over again!
Easy Beef Bulgogi
Ingredients
- 1 lb Minced Beef
- 10 cloves Garlic peel and mince it
- 1 medium Onion
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1/4 tsp Salt
Sauce
- 3 tbsp Soysauce
- 3 tbsp Vinegar
- 3 tbsp Brown Sugar or regular sugar
Garnish
- 2 Spring Onions finely chopped
- 1 tsp Sesame seeds
- 1 tsp Sesame Oil
Instructions
- Peel and finely chop your onion and mince your garlic
- Add 2 tbsp of oil to a pan, then add the minced beef. Cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add black pepper, salt, onion, and minced garlic.
- Mix all of the ingredients of the sauce. Add your sauce to the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle green onions, sesame seeds, and sesame oil.
- Serve it with rice.
Video
Notes
- This recipe can be made with steak or minced beef.
- Use brown or regular white sugar.