Korean Barbecued Beef("Bul Kogi")
Korean Barbecued Beef (Bul Kogi) offers tender, savory slices with a sweet and umami-rich marinade, perfect for grilling or stir-frying, ideal for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp. soy sauce ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. sesame oil or salad oil
- 2 Tbsp. brown sugar ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. honey ⓘ
- 1 thin slice fresh ginger, minced ⓘ
- 1 or 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 or 2 cloves, minced ⓘ
- 2 tsp. sesame seed, toasted ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. monosodium glutamate ("Accent")
- 1 Tbsp. sherry ⓘ
- dash of fresh ground black pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Cut steak into serving size pieces or into narrow strips, about 1/4 x 4-inches, always cutting strips across the grain for tenderness.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal. If you can't find sesame oil, a light vegetable oil works well too. Adding a dash of rice vinegar can enhance the marinade's acidity. For a spicier kick, include gochujang or red pepper flakes. Always slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve bulgogi with steamed rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a fresh crunch. It pairs beautifully with kimchi and pickled vegetables. Consider a side of grilled vegetables or a light salad, such as a simple cucumber salad, to complement the rich flavors. For a fun twist, serve with Mom'S Punch to balance the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bulgogi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to maintain the beef's tenderness. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it briefly, but be cautious not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Korean Barbecued Beef("Bul Kogi") contains roughly 435 calories, with 4g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 540mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
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 type of meat for bulgogi?
Yes, while beef is traditional, you can use pork or chicken as alternatives. Just adjust the marinating time; chicken may require less time, while pork can benefit from a longer marinade for flavor.
Is bulgogi spicy?
Bulgoi is not inherently spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by adding gochujang or red pepper flakes to the marinade. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
What sides should I serve with bulgogi?
Classic sides include rice, kimchi, and pickled vegetables. You can also serve it with a refreshing salad or grilled veggies. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with Lucci'S Lentil Macaroni Soup as a unique complement.
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).