If you’re craving tender, flavorful Korean BBQ at home, look no further than bulgogi (불고기), one of the most iconic and delicious Korean dishes. This sweet and savory marinated beef dish is easy to prepare and perfect for both beginners and Korean food lovers alike. In this post, we’ll walk you through how to make bulgogi at home using simple ingredients with authentic taste.
Ingredients for Bulgogi
To make this classic Korean BBQ beef, you’ll need:
- 1 pound (450g) thinly sliced beef ribeye or sirloin
- 1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 small carrot, julienned (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the marinade:
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar (brown sugar recommended)
- 2 tablespoons rice wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/2 small Korean pear or apple, grated (for tenderizing)
- A pinch of black pepper
💡 Tip: Use frozen beef and slice it thinly while partially frozen for best results.
How to Make Bulgogi
Step 1: Prepare the marinade
In a large bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
Step 2: Marinate the beef
Add the sliced beef and vegetables (onion, green onion, carrot) into the marinade. Mix thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Cook the bulgogi
Heat a pan or grill over medium-high heat. Add a little oil if necessary. Cook the marinated beef in batches, stirring or flipping occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.
Step 4: Serve and enjoy!
Transfer to a plate, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve hot. Bulgogi goes great with steamed rice, lettuce wraps, kimchi, and other Korean side dishes.
Why You’ll Love Bulgogi
Bulgogi isn’t just flavorful—it’s fun to eat, versatile, and a crowd-pleaser. You can serve it in rice bowls, lettuce wraps, or even use leftovers in fried rice or sandwiches. Once you try making bulgogi at home, it might just become your go-to Korean meal!
Have you tried bulgogi before? Share your thoughts or variations in the comments!