Bul-Kogi(Korean Barbecue)

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Korean

Bul-Kogi is a flavorful Korean barbecue featuring tender strips of marinated beef, grilled to perfection with savory sesame and soy flavors. This dish is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with steamed white rice, offering a delightful combination of smoky, savory, and nutty tastes that appeal to meat lovers and fans of Korean cuisine.

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Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp. sesame seed
  • 2 lb. lean beef (sirloin or top round), cut into 2-inch narrow strips
  • 1 bunch green onions, chopped
  • 1 Tbsp. garlic powder
  • 1/4 c. sesame seed oil
  • 1/4 c. soy sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Place the marinated beef in a broiler pan, cover, and let marinate for at least 15 minutes or until ready to cook.
  2. Uncover the beef and broil for about 10 minutes until cooked through and slightly charred.
  3. Serve the bul-kogi over white rice.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of fresh ginger or a tablespoon of brown sugar to the marinade. If you're short on time, marinating for just 15 minutes is fine, but longer marination will yield more flavor. You can substitute the beef with chicken or pork if preferred, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Pair this dish with fresh vegetables for a balanced meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve bul-kogi over a bed of fluffy white rice, which absorbs the delicious flavors of the meat. Garnish with additional chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added texture. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of kimchi or a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. For a more complete meal, consider serving alongside a simple Beef And Vegetable Casserole.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover bul-kogi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Bul-Kogi(Korean Barbecue) contains roughly 171 calories, with 8g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2113mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).

171 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.3g 17% DV
Total Fat 9.4g 12% DV
Carbs 15.8g 6% DV
Fiber 2.5g 9% DV
Sugar 1.3g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2112.5mg 92% DV
Potassium 440.2mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 14.7mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 74.6mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 4.9mg 5% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 43.4mg 3% DV
Iron 1.9mg 10% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Soy Sesame

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef for bul-kogi?

Yes, while sirloin or top round is recommended for its tenderness, you can use flank steak or ribeye as alternatives. Just ensure to slice the meat thinly against the grain for the best results in tenderness and flavor.

What can I serve with bul-kogi?

Bul-kogi is versatile and pairs well with steamed vegetables, pickled radishes, or a simple salad. You might also consider serving it with a side of grilled zucchini or a refreshing cucumber casserole for balance in flavors.

How spicy is bul-kogi, and can I adjust the heat level?

Traditional bul-kogi is not spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding red pepper flakes or a splash of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade. Start with a small amount and increase to your liking for the perfect balance of flavor.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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