This Easy Korean Kalbi BBQ Short Ribs recipe features sweet and savory marinated beef that melts in your mouth. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a fantastic treat for any barbecue!
Add some rice and veggies, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress! I love grilling these ribs on a nice day—there’s something magical about the smell that fills the air. 🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken-cut beef short ribs: This cut is perfect for Korean BBQ because it’s tender and flavorful. If you can’t find this specific cut, you can use regular beef short ribs or even pork ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce brings a deep umami flavor to the marinade. For a gluten-free option, use tamari sauce instead. You could also try coconut aminos, which are a bit sweeter but work well too.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, but adjust the amount since honey is sweeter.
Mirin: Mirin adds a unique sweetness and depth. If you don’t have it, you can use a mix of rice vinegar and sugar (2 tablespoons of rice vinegar with 1 tablespoon of sugar) as a substitute.
Sesame Oil: This is key for that authentic flavor. If you’re out, try using olive oil with a touch of toasted sesame seeds for a similar taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Ribs Stay Tender and Juicy?
To make tender and juicy ribs, marinate them well. Leaving them to soak overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. Don’t skip this step! When grilling, keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
- Start with a medium-high grill to achieve a nice char without drying them out.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, adjusting the time based on the thickness of your ribs.
- Let the ribs rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain juices when slicing.
How to Make Easy Korean Kalbi BBQ Short Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon water (optional)
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds flanken-cut beef short ribs
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 2 hours for marinating (preferably overnight for the best flavor). You’ll also need about 15 minutes for grilling. All in all, you can have tasty Korean BBQ short ribs ready in a few hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by taking a large bowl. In it, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, and black pepper. Stir everything well until the sugar dissolves. This will be your delicious marinade!
2. Marinate the Short Ribs:
Now, add the flanken-cut short ribs to the bowl with your marinade. Make sure the ribs are fully submerged in the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let them marinate for at least 2 hours; overnight is even better for more flavor!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This is key to getting those nice grill marks on your ribs!
4. Grill the Short Ribs:
Take the ribs out of the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. If you want to save some marinade for basting, boil it first to ensure it’s safe. Place the ribs on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re looking beautifully charred and cooked to your liking.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep them juicy! If you prefer, slice the ribs and garnish them with extra chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with rice and your favorite side dishes, and enjoy your mouthwatering meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flanken-cut beef short ribs are traditional for this dish, you can use other cuts like baby back ribs or even flank steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the thickness and type of meat. Be sure to adjust your grilling time accordingly!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. This will maintain the flavor without the gluten. Always double-check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary restrictions.
Can I Marinate the Short Ribs for Longer?
Yes, you can marinate the short ribs for up to 24 hours for even more flavor! Just remember to keep them refrigerated during the marination process. If you’re short on time, marinating for at least 2 hours is still beneficial, but the longer, the better!
What Are the Best Side Dishes to Serve with Korean Kalbi?
Some great side dishes to pair with your Korean Kalbi are steamed rice, kimchi, pickled vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad. These accompaniments balance the rich flavors of the ribs and provide a refreshing contrast!
