Galbi features tender and juicy flanken ribs marinated in a tasty mix of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. The grilling brings a smoky flavor that makes your mouth water!
Every time I make this dish, I can’t help but imagine a BBQ party. Grab some rice and let the finger-licking begin! 😋 You won’t believe how easy it is to impress your friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken Cut Short Ribs: This is the star of the show! If unavailable, try using boneless short ribs or even skirt steak, though the taste will differ slightly. Flanken gives that traditional Korean flavor and tenderness.
Soy Sauce: A must-have for flavor! If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce works just fine. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead.
Sugar: Regular white sugar is the go-to for balancing flavors. You can swap in brown sugar for a deeper flavor or even honey for a different sweetness profile.
Rice Wine or Mirin: Both add a mild sweetness. If you can’t find them, dry sherry or even a splash of apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch, though the flavors will vary a bit.
Green Onions: Freshness is key! If you run out, chives can be a great substitute for garnish, adding a mild onion flavor without overwhelming the dish.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Grilled Ribs?
Grilling flanken ribs to perfection is all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to get that charred, delicious finish:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high for that great sear.
- Remove excess marinade from the ribs to avoid flare-ups on the grill.
- Cook each side for 3-5 minutes, watching closely, especially if your grill is very hot.
- Use a meat thermometer if you want to be precise; aim for around 145°F for medium rare.
Letting the ribs rest for a few minutes after grilling helps lock in those juicy flavors. Enjoy your seriously easy Galbi! Serve it with rice and veggies for that real Korean twist!
How to Make Galbi Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice wine (or mirin)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds flanken cut short ribs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 4 hours to marinate (preferably overnight). Grilling will take another 15-20 minutes. Plan for a total of at least 4 hours and 30 minutes to enjoy delicious Galbi!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, mix together the soy sauce, sugar, water, minced garlic, minced ginger, sesame oil, rice wine, and black pepper. Stir everything well until the sugar dissolves and you have a nice, tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Add the flanken cut short ribs to your lovely marinade, making sure each piece is coated really well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 4 hours or, for the best flavor, overnight. This is the secret to making your ribs super tasty!
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, take the ribs out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. This helps get a nice char without too much marinade burning.
4. Grill the Ribs:
Now it’s grilling time! Place the ribs on the grill and cook them for about 3-5 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn and cook until they are beautifully charred and done to your liking. You’ll love the smell!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once they’re done, transfer the grilled ribs to a serving platter. Sprinkle some chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for a lovely touch. Serve right away and enjoy your delicious Galbi!
For an authentic Korean meal experience, serve these ribs with steamed rice and some pickled vegetables on the side. Enjoy your feast!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for This Recipe?
Yes, while flanken cut short ribs are traditional for Galbi, you can use other cuts like beef flank steak, ribeye, or even sirloin. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since thinner cuts may cook faster.
How Long Can I Marinate the Ribs?
You can marinate the ribs for up to 24 hours. Beyond that, the meat might become too tender and mushy. If you’re short on time, marinating for at least 4 hours will still impart a good flavor!
What if I Don’t Have Sesame Oil?
No worries! If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute it with a mild vegetable oil or olive oil. Additionally, if you want to capture a bit of the nutty flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to your marinade.
Can I Prepare Galbi Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the ribs a day before and keep them in the refrigerator. Just remember to grill them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
