These Galbi Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs are juicy and packed with flavor! Marinated in a sweet and savory mix, they’re perfect for grilling and share a taste of Korean tradition.
Grilling these ribs is a fun way to bring everyone together. I love how the marinade caramelizes on the grill—it makes the best sticky goodness. Get your napkins ready! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken-Style Beef Short Ribs: These are key for flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find them, you can use boneless short ribs or even beef chuck. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and umami. You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative. Personally, I like to blend a bit of both for depth!
Brown Sugar: It brings sweetness and caramelization. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use honey or maple syrup. Just remember they are sweeter than brown sugar, so adjust accordingly.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty taste that’s essential. If you’re out, you can substitute with vegetable oil, but you’ll miss that unique flavor. Keep sesame oil for the full experience!
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger infuse the marinade with exciting flavor. In a pinch, you can use garlic and ginger powder, but fresh is always better for that vibrant taste!
How Do I Ensure My Ribs are Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling ribs can be tricky, but with a bit of practice, you’ll get it just right. Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. It helps to have a good grill thermometer handy. Here’s a simple approach:
- Let the ribs come to room temperature before grilling for a more even cook.
- Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side. Look for nice grill marks and caramelization.
- For added tenderness, consider wrapping the ribs in foil for half of the cooking time.
Don’t forget to let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in moisture. Happy grilling!
How to Make Galbi (Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 pounds flanken-style beef short ribs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup minced garlic (about 10 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 4 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Galbi recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation, plus at least 4 hours for marinating—overnight is best! You’ll spend another 10 minutes grilling the ribs. So, in total, you’re looking at about 4 hours and 25 minutes, mostly hands-off while the ribs soak up those wonderful flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice vinegar, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions. Make sure to mix everything well until the sugar has completely dissolved. This will create a tasty marinade that really flavors the ribs!
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Add the flanken-style ribs to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Once coated, cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better for a richer flavor. During this time, the meat will soak up all those delicious marinade ingredients!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and ready to go. This step is important to get those nice grill marks!
4. Grill the Ribs:
Take the ribs out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place them on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely caramelized and have beautiful grill marks. They should be cooked to medium-rare or medium for the best taste!
5. Serve:
Once the ribs are cooked, transfer them to a serving plate. To make them look even more appetizing, sprinkle some extra sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top as a garnish.
6. Enjoy:
Serve your Galbi hot alongside steamed rice and your favorite side dishes like kimchi or pickled vegetables. Dive into the rich, savory flavors of this beloved Korean classic. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While flanken-style beef short ribs are traditional for this recipe, you can use other cuts like bone-in ribeye or pork ribs if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the marinating time based on the thickness of the meat—thinner cuts may need less time!
How Long Should I Marinate the Ribs?
For best results, marinate the ribs for at least 4 hours, but overnight is recommended. This allows the flavors to really penetrate the meat. If you’re short on time, even 1 hour will impart some flavor, though it won’t be as intense.
How to Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and place them in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps retain moisture!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance! Keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as some ingredients may settle. You can also freeze the marinade in a zip-top bag for future use!
