Galbi are delicious Korean grilled ribs that are sweet, savory, and full of flavor. These flanken-style ribs are marinated in a tasty sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil!
When I fire up the grill, the smell of these ribs sizzling makes my mouth water. Plus, they cook quickly, so I can enjoy a feast in no time. Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken-style beef short ribs: These ribs are the star of the dish, offering rich flavor and a tender bite. If you can’t find flanken-style, you can use regular beef short ribs, though the cooking time may vary slightly.
Soy sauce: This adds depth and saltiness. If you’re gluten-sensitive, try tamari or coconut aminos, which have a similar profile without the gluten.
Brown sugar: It gives a nice caramelization when grilling. You can swap it with white sugar or maple syrup if you prefer a different sweetness, keeping in mind that it might alter the flavor slightly.
Honey: While it adds sweetness, agave syrup can be a good alternative if you’re looking for a vegan option or want to reduce sugar intake.
Sesame oil: This oil infuses a nutty flavor. For a lighter option, use olive oil, but it won’t have the same distinct taste.
How Do I Make the Perfect Marinade?
The marinade is crucial for tender and flavorful ribs. It’s essential to combine the ingredients thoroughly to ensure each rib gets coated evenly. Here’s how to make it:
- In a large bowl, blend soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, and sesame oil.
- Add minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper to the mix.
- Whisk until the sugar dissolves, creating a uniform marinade.
Let the ribs soak in this goodness for at least 4 hours, but overnight really enhances the flavor!
How to Make Galbi (Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds flanken-style beef short ribs
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 4 hours for marinating (or overnight for the best flavor). After marinating, grilling will take around 15 minutes. So, plan for a total of about 4 hours and 30 minutes, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by mixing together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper in a large bowl. This combination will create a delicious marinade full of flavor for the ribs.
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Place the flanken-style beef short ribs into the bowl with the marinade, making sure each rib is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. If you have time, letting them soak overnight will enhance the flavors even more!
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. Take the marinated ribs out of the fridge and remove them from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. You want the ribs to be well-seasoned without being too saucy.
4. Grill the Ribs:
Place the ribs on the hot grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice char and the ribs should be cooked to your preferred doneness. Don’t forget to flip them for even cooking!
5. Serve with Style:
Once your ribs are grilled to perfection, transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top for a beautiful presentation.
6. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your Galbi right away with some steamed rice and your favorite side dishes, like kimchi or pickled vegetables. Dig in and enjoy the delightful flavors of this Korean classic!
Can I Use Another Type of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you can’t find flanken-style short ribs, you can substitute with other cuts like baby back ribs or even boneless short ribs. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the meat.
How Do I Store Leftover Galbi?
Leftover Galbi can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to help keep the meat moist.
What if I Don’t Have Sesame Oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil on hand, you can use a neutral oil like vegetable oil or canola oil. For a hint of flavor, you might consider adding a few drops of toasted sesame oil if available, which will give you a similar taste profile.
Can I Marinate the Ribs for Longer?
Yes, you can marinate the ribs for up to 24 hours! Just be cautious, as marinating for too long can make the meat overly salty or mushy. If you plan to marinate for a full day, I recommend reducing the amount of soy sauce in the marinade slightly.
