The Best Homemade Beef Bulgogi Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade beef bulgogi recipe brings the flavors of Korea right to your kitchen, making it perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how simple and satisfying it is to prepare, with a marinade that works its magic in no time.

First, the marinade is packed with savory, sweet, and tangy notes that create a balanced flavor explosion. Second, it uses everyday ingredients you likely already have, so no extra trips to the store are needed. Finally, it’s versatile—serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or even as a topping for noodles, making it a meal everyone will enjoy.

Recipe

Beef bulgogi is a classic Korean dish featuring thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. This recipe delivers tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for grilling or pan-cooking. Its signature marinade combines soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil for an authentic taste.

Ingredients :

• 1 1/2 pounds flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 pear, grated (optional, for tenderness)
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions :

1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, grated pear (if using), ginger, sesame seeds, green onions, and black pepper.
2. Add the sliced flank steak to the marinade, ensuring it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
3. Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated beef in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through.
4. Serve hot with steamed rice and optional garnishes like lettuce wraps or kimchi.

Notes :

• For extra tenderness, freeze the flank steak for 30 minutes before slicing.
• Adjust the sugar level to balance sweetness according to preference.

Equipment :

Skillet or grill, mixing bowl, knife, cutting board

Time :

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 10 minutes

Marinating time: 1 hour or overnight

Cuisine :

Korean

Serving :

Serves 4

Nutrition

Beef bulgogi is a flavorful Korean dish that combines marinated beef with a variety of vegetables. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a homemade beef bulgogi recipe.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my beef bulgogi with simple yet flavorful side dishes like steamed rice or crunchy kimchi. A chilled glass of soju or iced green tea perfectly complements the dish’s rich, savory flavors. Let me share some of my favorite combinations to make your meal complete.

Side Dishes Ideas

Since bulgogi’s rich, savory flavors shine best when paired with the right sides, I’ve got some easy and tasty ideas to round out your meal. Start with steamed white rice—it’s a classic and soaks up the sauce perfectly. Kimchi adds a tangy crunch that balances the sweetness of the bulgogi, while sesame spinach is light and nutty. Try a quick cucumber salad for a revitalizing bite, or go for japchae (sweet potato noodles) for something heartier. Don’t forget lettuce wraps—they’re fun and let you enjoy the bulgogi in a fresh, hands-on way. These sides make every bite even better!

Perfect Beverage Pairings

When it comes to complementing beef bulgogi’s bold flavors, the right drink can make all the difference. I love pairing it with a crisp, cold Korean beer like Hite or Cass—it cuts through the richness perfectly. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a chilled barley tea (boricha) balances the sweetness and spice. For a bolder choice, try soju, a smooth Korean spirit that enhances the marinade’s depth. And don’t overlook a simple glass of iced green tea—it’s invigorating and light. Whatever you pick, make sure it’s something you enjoy, because great food deserves great company, even in a glass.

About The Author

younes

See author's posts