Galbi is a tasty Korean dish featuring marinated flanken ribs that are grilled to perfection. The sweet and savory marinade adds a burst of flavor to every bite, making it irresistible!
Grilling these ribs is my favorite part—they get those yummy charred bits that are just heavenly. I can’t help but smile every time I take a bite. Perfect for sharing with friends during a weekend cookout!
It’s super easy to make the marinade, and you can soak the ribs overnight for even more flavor. Serve them with rice, and you have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken-style short ribs: These ribs are known for their high flavor from marbling. If you can’t find them, short ribs or even steak can work as alternatives, though the texture and taste will change a bit.
Soy sauce: It’s essential for making the marinade salty and flavorful. For a gluten-free option, you can use tamari instead, which tastes similar.
Brown sugar: This adds sweetness to counteract the saltiness of the soy sauce. You can swap it with honey or coconut sugar if you prefer a lighter option.
Sesame oil: This oil gives a wonderful nutty flavor. If you don’t have sesame oil, avocado or olive oil can be used, but they won’t offer the same taste, so add a bit more toasted sesame seeds for flavor.
Gochujang: This Korean red pepper paste provides heat. If you want less spicy, skip it or use a bit of sriracha instead, which is a little milder.
How Do I Get the Best Marinated Flavor?
Marinating is key for a great Galbi! The longer you marinate, the tastier your ribs will be. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for those rich flavors to really develop. Make sure to coat all sides of the ribs well and consider giving them a little massage in the marinade.
- Mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly before adding the ribs.
- Store the marinating ribs in a sealed container or bag to keep all the flavors locked in.
- Always let the excess marinade drip off before grilling to avoid flare-ups and to get that nice char.
How to Make Galbi (Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup minced green onions (plus more for garnish)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) for additional spice
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds flanken-style short ribs (cut across the bone)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 2 hours for marinating (overnight is best!). After marination, grilling the ribs will take about 10-12 minutes. In total, you’re looking at a few hours but most of that is just waiting for the flavors to come together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced green onions, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, sesame seeds, black pepper, and gochujang (if you’re using it). Mix everything well until the sugar is dissolved, creating a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Add the flanken-style short ribs to the marinade. Make sure each rib is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the ribs marinate for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight to really soak up those delicious flavors!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This will help achieve that perfect char on your ribs.
4. Grill the Ribs:
Take the ribs out of the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the ribs on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely charred and cooked to your liking. The smell should be amazing!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once grilled, transfer the ribs to a platter. Sprinkle additional minced green onions and sesame seeds on top for an extra pop of flavor and color. Serve hot alongside steamed rice and some tasty side dishes like kimchi or pickled vegetables. Enjoy your delicious Galbi!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flanken-style short ribs are traditional for galbi, you can use other cuts like chuck short ribs or even beef flank steak. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different cuts may require different grilling times to reach tenderness.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before using. Just give it a good stir before adding the meat, as ingredients may settle.
What If I Don’t Have Gochujang?
No worries! If you don’t have gochujang, you can substitute it with Sriracha or any other chili paste you have on hand to add a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your liking, starting with a small amount and tasting as you go.
How to Store Leftover Galbi?
Store any leftover galbi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it, which can make the meat tough.
