Galbi is a tasty Korean dish featuring thinly sliced short ribs marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s perfect for grilling and makes any meal feel special!
These ribs have a lovely mix of flavors thanks to the marinade—think soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sugar. I can’t resist eating them hot off the grill; they’re simply irresistible! 😋
When I make Galbi, I love serving them with rice and veggies. It’s a fun and easy way to enjoy a bit of Korean culture right at home. Give it a try, and you’ll love it, too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken-style beef short ribs: These are key for the rich, meaty flavor of Galbi. If you can’t find them, try using other cuts like beef chuck or short ribs with a similar texture.
Soy sauce: A must-have in Korean cooking! For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. I always use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.
Brown sugar: This adds caramelization and depth to the ribs. You can switch to honey or maple syrup if you prefer a different sweetness, but adjust to taste as they’re more concentrated.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste provides heat and umami. If you don’t have it, a mix of chili powder and a bit of honey could work, but it’s not quite the same. Aim to get gochujang if you can!
How Can I Marinate Ribs for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is where the magic happens! The longer you let the ribs soak up those seasonings, the more flavorful they become. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix your marinade well and taste it—it should balance salty, sweet, and spicy.
- Coat the ribs thoroughly, and use a ziplock bag for easy handling and even flavor distribution.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours—overnight is best for deep flavor.
Remember to let the ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps them cook evenly. Enjoy your Grilled Galbi!
How to Make Galbi Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Galbi Marinade:
- 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 wine or mirin
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- Black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of preparation time and at least 4 hours for marinating, preferably overnight for the best flavor. Grilling will take around 10-15 minutes. So, plan on at least 4 hours and 15 minutes total, but it’s worth the wait for those delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice wine or mirin, minced garlic, grated ginger, gochujang, and a dash of black pepper. Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well blended. This marinade is what gives the ribs their mouthwatering flavor!
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Add the flanken-style beef short ribs to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated in that wonderful sauce. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight will give you the best results. If you can, flip the ribs halfway through for even marinating.
3. Preheat and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting the excess drip off—don’t worry, they’ll still be flavorful! Place the ribs on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re beautifully grilled and reach your desired level of doneness.
4. Rest and Garnish:
Once they’re done grilling, take the ribs off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy and tender. Just before serving, garnish the ribs with chopped green onions and sprinkle on some sesame seeds for a nice crunch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Galbi hot with some steamed rice and your favorite side dishes, like kimchi. Enjoy that wonderful blend of flavors and the tender, juicy texture of the ribs!
Can I Use Bone-In Short Ribs Instead of Flanken Ribs?
Yes! Bone-in short ribs will work, but they may require a longer cooking time on the grill. Just make sure they are well marinated and aim to grill them for about 6-8 minutes on each side until they reach your desired doneness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. All other ingredients should be gluten-free, but always double-check labels just in case!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, simply add the ribs and let them marinate as directed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Ribs?
Store any leftover grilled galbi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a grill or oven to warm them up gently, which will help maintain their tenderness. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overcook and dry them out!
