Galbi is a tasty Korean dish made with tender flanken ribs marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s grilled to perfection, making it juicy and full of flavor!
Every time I make these ribs, I can’t help but eat more than I planned! They’re perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Just wait for those amazing smells to fill your kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken-style Beef Short Ribs: This cut is perfect for grilling as it allows for tender, flavorful meat. If you can’t find flanken ribs, you can use short ribs or even skirt steak cut into similar thickness.
Soy Sauce: A must for that savory flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, try tamari. Low-sodium soy sauce is also a great alternative if you’re watching your salt intake.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness to the marinade. If you prefer, you could swap it with honey or maple syrup, though sweetness levels may vary.
Sesame Oil: It gives a nutty flavor, essential for authentic taste. If you don’t have sesame oil, a mix of olive oil with a sprinkle of sesame seeds can work in a pinch.
Mirin: This sweet rice wine enhances the marinade’s depth. If unavailable, a mixture of 1 part sugar and 3 parts water can mimic the sweetness for a substitute.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor From the Marinade?
Marinating is crucial for great-tasting galbi. The marinade not only tenderizes the meat but infuses flavor. Aim to marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Ensure each piece is coated well; a zip-lock bag can work wonders for even coverage.
- Mix all marinade ingredients until the sugar blends well.
- Place ribs in the marinade; seal and refrigerate. Flip the bag occasionally for even soaking.
- Letting the ribs sit longer allows flavors to penetrate more deeply, which is key for that delicious taste!
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 sesame oil
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds flanken-style beef short ribs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours to marinate. Allow time for grilling, which will take around 10-15 minutes. Overall, plan on around 2 hours and 15 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes to enjoy these tasty Galbi ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, start by whisking together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, mirin, minced garlic, grated ginger, and the chopped green onions. This is where all the flavors come together to create a delicious marinade for the ribs!
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Next, add the flanken ribs into the marinade. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let those flavors soak in for at least 2 hours, or better yet, overnight for maximum yumminess!
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is important to achieve that nice char on the ribs. While it’s heating up, take the ribs out of the marinade and shake off any extra liquid—make sure to save the marinade for basting!
4. Grill the Ribs:
Lightly season the ribs with salt and pepper. Place them on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. For extra flavor, baste them with the reserved marinade during the last minute of cooking.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the ribs are grilled to your preferred doneness and have a beautiful char, remove them from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing, if needed. Garnish with more chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice and kimchi or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your delightful Galbi ribs!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flanken-style beef short ribs are traditional, you can substitute with other cuts like chuck short ribs or even beef skirt steak. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and type of meat you choose.
How Long Can I Marinate the Ribs?
You can marinate the ribs for as little as 2 hours, but for the best flavor, try to marinate them overnight. If you decide to marinate them for longer than 24 hours, the meat may begin to break down and become mushy, so aim for that sweet spot!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade up to one week in advance. Just store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. This makes it convenient for a quick meal; just add the ribs when you’re ready to grill!
