Galbi, or Korean grilled flanken ribs, are beautifully marinated, tender pieces of meat that are full of flavor. The combination of sweet and savory makes them simply mouthwatering!
Cooking these ribs is a fun adventure! I love how the grill gives them that perfect char. Plus, add a fresh salad on the side, and you’ve got a dinner that impresses everyone. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken-style beef short ribs: This cut provides a great balance of meat and fat, adding richness to the dish. If you can’t find flanken ribs, you can substitute with traditional short ribs, though the cooking time may vary slightly.
Soy sauce: A key ingredient for that umami flavor. If you’re gluten-free, try using tamari or coconut aminos instead. If you like a slightly sweeter flavor, low-sodium soy sauce is a great pick.
Brown sugar: This gives a lovely caramelization during grilling. You can use coconut sugar or honey as a substitute, but keep in mind that honey is sweeter, so you may want to reduce the amount.
Grated pear: The pear not only adds sweetness but also helps tenderize the meat. If a Korean pear isn’t available, any ripe pear will work. You could also use applesauce in a pinch for a similar effect.
Sesame oil: This oil adds a wonderful nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use vegetable oil with a few drops of sesame oil mixed in for flavor.
How Do I Get My Ribs to Grill Perfectly?
Grilling ribs can feel tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get great results! Here’s how:
- Marinade Wisely: Let your ribs soak in that flavorful marinade for at least 3 hours or even overnight. This deeply enhances the taste.
- Prepare Your Grill: Make sure your grill is nice and hot before placing the ribs on it. A medium-high heat helps achieve that desirable char without overcooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give your ribs space on the grill so that they cook evenly. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of grilling.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Grill the ribs for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re nicely charred. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; for medium-rare, aim for around 135°F.
- Resting is Key: Once taken off the grill, let the ribs rest for a few minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, making them juicy and tender.
How to Make Galbi Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds flanken-style beef short ribs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup grated pear (Korean pear preferred, but any ripe pear will work)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and requires at least 3 hours to marinate the ribs. For the best flavor, try to let them sit in the marinade overnight. Cooking on the grill will take around 10 minutes. So total, you’re looking at a little over 3 hours, plus grilling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, grated pear, minced garlic, grated ginger, and finely chopped green onions. Stir everything together until the sugar has completely dissolved. This is your delicious marinade!
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Next, take the flanken-style beef short ribs and place them into the bowl with the marinade. Make sure every piece of beef is well-coated with the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge. Let the ribs marinate for at least 3 hours, but ideally overnight so they soak up all the amazing flavors.
3. Grill the Ribs:
When you are ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals reach a steady heat. Take the marinated ribs out of the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. Season the ribs lightly with salt and pepper to your taste.
4. Cooking to Perfection:
Place the ribs on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to develop a nice char and be cooked to your preferred level of doneness. If you’d like a little extra flavor, during the last minute of cooking, brush some more marinade onto the ribs.
5. Rest and Garnish:
Once the ribs are cooked, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle inside the meat. Before serving, sprinkle the ribs with additional chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a lovely garnish!
Enjoy your Galbi Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs with steamed rice and your favorite side dishes! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flanken-style ribs are traditional, you can substitute with other cuts like short ribs or even a thicker cut of ribeye. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the meat. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer if you’re unsure!
How Long Should I Marinate the Ribs?
For the best flavor, marinate the ribs for at least 3 hours, but overnight is ideal! This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply. If you’re in a time crunch, even 1 hour will give you some flavor, but the longer, the better!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled galbi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat gently on the grill or in the oven to maintain their flavor and texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the meat tough!
What Can I Serve with Galbi?
Galbi pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, kimchi, and pickled vegetables. You can also add a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad to brighten up the meal. For a fun twist, try wrapping pieces of galbi in lettuce leaves with rice, garlic, and sesame oil for a delicious bite!
