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Bulgogi (불고기)

Bulgogi : 불고기 (Ai Photo)


Bulgogi (불고기) — Korean Marinated BBQ Beef

Bulgogi, meaning “fire meat,” is one of Korea’s most beloved dishes. Thinly sliced beef is marinated in a savory-sweet sauce made of soy sauce, pear, garlic, and sesame oil, then grilled or pan-fried to perfection. This dish represents the heart of Korean home cooking, bringing together family and friends around the sizzling aroma of marinated beef.

Bulgogi : 불고기 (Ai Photo)

Ingredients

  • Beef sirloin or ribeye (소고기 등심 또는 안심)
  • Soy sauce (간장)
  • Sugar (설탕)
  • Korean pear (배)
  • Garlic (마늘)
  • Onion (양파)
  • Green onion (대파)
  • Sesame oil (참기름)
  • Black pepper (후추)
  • Sesame seeds (통깨)
  • Cooking oil (식용유)

Steps

  1. Thinly slice the beef and place it in a large bowl.

  2. Blend Korean pear, onion, and garlic into a smooth puree.

  3. Add soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper to the puree to make the marinade.

  4. Pour the marinade over the beef, add sliced onions and green onions, and mix well.

  5. Let the meat marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

  6. Heat a pan or grill, add a bit of oil, and cook the bulgogi until the beef is caramelized and tender.

  7. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

Tips

  • Substitute Korean pear with apple or kiwi if unavailable.

  • For a vegan version, use tofu or mushrooms instead of beef.

  • Serve with lettuce wraps (ssam), rice, and kimchi for a full Korean meal experience.

  • Pair with cold beer or makgeolli for the perfect combination!



Which K-Food would you like to explore next? Share in the comments!

Reference video


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