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Savory Korean Bulgogi: Grilled Beef Delight

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Bulgogi Recipe: A Delicious Korean Delight for Summer

Introduction

Bulgogi, a classic Korean dish known for its savory, sweet, and slightly smoky flavors, is a perfect addition to any summer menu. While I’m not Korean, I’ve experimented extensively with the marinade to create a version that brings out the best in this beloved dish. Whether you’re hosting a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, Bulgogi promises to be a crowd-pleaser with its tender, flavorful beef and vibrant accompaniments.

Recipe Overview

  • Name: Bulgogi
  • Category: Meat
  • Cuisine: Korean, Asian
  • Keywords: Korean, Asian, Very Low Carbs, Low Cholesterol, Weeknight, Broil/Grill, Oven, < 4 Hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 8 minutes
    • Prep Time: 3 hours (marinating time)
    • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories per Serving: 426
  • Rating: 5 (based on 4 reviews)

Ingredients

  • Quantities:
    • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
    • 2 tsp salt
    • 1/2 cup chopped scallions
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 3 tbsp soy sauce
    • 1/4 cup rice wine
    • 3 tbsp sugar
    • 2 tsp black pepper
    • 1 tbsp minced ginger
    • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef:

    • Begin by cutting the steak into thin pieces, approximately 1 inch wide, 3-4 inches long, and 1/4 inch thick. This ensures the meat cooks quickly and absorbs the marinade effectively.
  2. Toast Sesame Seeds:

    • Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn a shade darker and release a nutty aroma. Transfer the toasted sesame seeds to a medium bowl.
  3. Make the Marinade:

    • To the toasted sesame seeds, add salt and mix well. Incorporate the scallions, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, black pepper, minced ginger, and water. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and the sugar has dissolved, creating a uniform marinade.
  4. Marinate the Beef:

    • Place the sliced beef into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally mixing periodically to ensure all meat surfaces are marinated evenly.
  5. Cooking Options:

    • Broil in Oven: Preheat the broiler. Remove the marinated beef from the refrigerator and place it on a broiler pan or a foil-lined baking sheet. Broil for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the beef reaches your desired level of doneness and caramelization.
    • Grill: Alternatively, preheat your grill (charcoal or gas). Grill the marinated beef over medium-high heat for a couple of minutes on each side until cooked through and slightly charred.
  6. Serving Suggestions:

    • Serve Bulgogi hot over steamed rice alongside pieces of fresh lettuce leaves. To enjoy, wrap the beef in the lettuce leaves or use rice wrappers for a more substantial bite. The combination of tender beef, crunchy lettuce, and savory-sweet marinade is a delight for the senses.
  7. Accompaniments:

    • Traditionally, Bulgogi is served with kimchi (spicy fermented cabbage) and a dollop of gochujang (Korean chili paste). These additions complement the dish’s flavors, adding spice and tanginess that enhance the overall dining experience.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 426 kcal
  • Fat: 23.8g
    • Saturated Fat: 7.2g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 1365.3mg
  • Carbohydrates: 22.3g
    • Fiber: 2.1g
    • Sugar: 4.1g
  • Protein: 28.9g

Conclusion

Bulgogi is not just a meal; it’s an experience of flavors and textures that celebrate Korean culinary heritage. With a few hours of marinating and quick cooking, you can bring the essence of Korean barbecue right to your table, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Enjoy the journey of preparing and savoring this delicious dish with loved ones, creating moments of joy and culinary adventure together.

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