Beef Bulgogi

Beef Bulgogi
Hey there, dinner enthusiasts! Today, we’re making a delicious and savory dish that’s perfect for any evening: Beef Bulgogi. This recipe is designed to be simple, affordable, and absolutely delicious, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned home cooks. Let’s get cooking!
A Little Story
Imagine a cozy evening when you want to enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with a bit of an exotic twist. Beef Bulgogi is the perfect choice. This popular Korean dish features thinly sliced beef marinated in a flavorful mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, then quickly grilled or stir-fried to perfection. It’s a delightful meal that brings the flavors of Korea to your table, perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
When to Serve
Beef Bulgogi is versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions:
Family Dinners: Perfect for a special and satisfying family meal.
Dinner Parties: Ideal for impressing your guests with a flavorful and exotic dish.
Weeknight Meals: Great for a comforting and quick dinner.
Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Best Drink Pairings
Korean Soju: A classic choice to complement the rich flavors of bulgogi.
Beer: A light lager or pale ale pairs beautifully.
Green Tea: A non-alcoholic option that balances the flavors.
Sake: Adds an authentic touch to the meal.
Ingredients
1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, thinly sliced
1/2 small onion, thinly sliced
1 carrot, julienned
3 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional)
For the Marinade:
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons rice wine or mirin
1 tablespoon grated pear or apple
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-ins
Mushrooms
Bell peppers
Spinach
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
1. Mix Marinade Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, sugar, rice wine, grated pear, minced garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
1. Combine Beef and Marinade: Place the thinly sliced beef in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring each piece is well coated.
2. Add Vegetables: Add the sliced onion, julienned carrot, and chopped green onions to the beef and marinade. Mix to combine.
3. Marinate: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 3: Cook the Beef Bulgogi
1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or grill pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef and vegetables to the skillet in a single layer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is cooked through and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Serve
1. Plate the Bulgogi: Transfer the cooked beef bulgogi to a serving platter.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and drizzle with sesame oil for extra flavor.
Serving Tips
Complete the Meal: Serve with steamed rice, lettuce wraps, or kimchi for a complete dinner.
Extra Flavor: Add a side of Korean BBQ sauce or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
Presentation: Garnish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a vibrant look.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient Amount per Serving (Approx.)
Calories 350
Carbohydrates 15g
Protein 25g
Fat 20g
Fiber 2g
Sugar 10g
Sodium 800mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
A Quick Shortcut
If you’re short on time, use pre-sliced beef and a store-bought Korean BBQ marinade. This can significantly cut down on prep and cooking time while still delivering great flavor.