Authentic Korean Beef Bulgogi – Sweet, Savory & Perfectly Tender
This Authentic Korean Beef Bulgogi is a flavorful classic! Thin slices of beef are marinated in a sweet and savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and pear, then grilled or pan-seared to juicy perfection. Serve with rice, lettuce wraps, or noodles for a delicious Korean-inspired meal that’s easy to make at home.
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Grill or cast iron skillet
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1-inch piece ginger
- ½ Korean pear or apple
- 2 green onions
- ½ onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tbsp gochujang (for heat)
- 1 tbsp mirin or rice wine
- Mushrooms, carrots, or scallions
Instructions
- Make the Marinade Blend soy sauce, sugar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, pear/apple, and green onions until smooth.
- Prepare the Beef Slice beef thinly (partially freeze for easier slicing). Place in bowl and massage marinade into meat. Add sliced onion.
- Marinate Cover and refrigerate for 2–4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Cook the BulgogiGrill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook beef slices 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized.Pan-Fry: Heat cast iron skillet over high heat. Sear beef in batches until browned and cooked through.
- Garnish & Serve Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve with rice, lettuce wraps, or banchan.
Notes
- Korean pear or apple tenderizes meat naturally.
- Use a wire rack or cast iron for best sear.
- Freeze marinated beef for up to 2 months.
- Reheat gently in skillet or microwave—avoid overcooking.
- Serve with steamed rice, kimchi, cucumber salad, or wrapped in lettuce with ssamjang.