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Authentic Korean Beef Bulgogi

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Authentic Korean beef bulgogi is a quick, savory, and flavorful dish featuring thinly sliced marinated beef that’s pan-seared or grilled to caramelized perfection. With a blend of soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and a touch of sweetness, this dish delivers bold Korean BBQ flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin beef
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1/2 Asian pear or apple, grated (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 white onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup thinly sliced carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers

Instructions

  1. Freeze beef for 30 minutes for easier slicing, then cut into very thin strips.
  2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, green onion, grated pear or apple, and black pepper.
  3. Add beef to the marinade, mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or grill pan over high heat.
  5. Add sliced onions and optional vegetables and sauté briefly.
  6. Cook marinated beef in batches until browned and caramelized, about 3–5 minutes per batch.
  7. Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Add gochujang or red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
  • Grilling the beef enhances smoky flavor.
  • Substitute beef with chicken or tofu for variation.
  • Asian pear or apple helps tenderize but can be skipped if needed.
  • Slice beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.

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