Galbi is a tasty Korean dish featuring marinated flanken ribs, which are grilled to juicy perfection. The sweet and savory sauce makes these ribs irresistible!
When I make them, the smell alone makes my mouth water! I love serving them with rice and veggies for a fun and delicious meal. Trust me, you’ll want to make extras! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken-cut beef short ribs: This cut is essential for Galbi’s traditional flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, beef short ribs or even flank steak can work, but they may not have the same rich taste.
Soy sauce: A staple in Korean cooking, soy sauce adds depth. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. If you’re reducing sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce, which still keeps great flavor!
Brown sugar: Brown sugar gives sweetness and moisture. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, but remember to adjust the quantity—start with a bit less as these alternatives can be sweeter.
Sesame oil: This oil provides a nutty flavor. In case you can’t find it, you can use olive oil, but it won’t give the same aroma. Look for toasted sesame oil for a stronger taste if you can find it.
Garlic and ginger: Fresh is best for these ingredients! If you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder and ground ginger, but fresh versions really make a difference in flavor.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor with Marinading?
Marinating is key to infusing your short ribs with flavor. Aim to marinate the meat for at least 4 hours, but overnight is the gold standard. This allows the flavors to penetrate, making the ribs tender and tasty.
- Mix your marinade well and ensure the brown sugar is fully dissolved.
- Make sure each rib is coated completely and cover them to avoid drying out.
- If using a bag, press out excess air to help the marinade coat the meat evenly.
When ready to grill, let the ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook evenly and develop a nice char on the grill!
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 water
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Black pepper to taste
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds flanken-cut beef short ribs
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time to mix the marinade and coat the ribs. You’ll also need to let the ribs marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best! Grilling will take another 10-15 minutes. In total, set aside some time for marinating plus the grill time for a delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and a good amount of black pepper. Stir everything together until the sugar has completely dissolved. This yummy marinade is what gives your ribs that amazing flavor!
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Now it’s time for the ribs! Add the flanken-cut beef short ribs to the bowl, making sure each piece is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the fridge. Let the ribs soak up the flavors for at least 4 hours or, for the best taste, overnight.
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Take the marinated ribs out of the fridge and let any extra marinade drip off before grilling. This will help them get that nice char without being too saucy!
4. Grill the Ribs:
Place the ribs on the grill and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them to ensure they get that beautiful char while cooking to your desired doneness. The smell will be amazing!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your ribs are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter. To make them look extra delicious, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. Serve the Galbi immediately with some steamed rice and your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flanken-cut beef short ribs are traditional, you can also use regular short ribs or even boneless beef ribeye. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness and fat content of the meat, so ensure each cut reaches your preferred doneness.
How Long Can I Marinate the Ribs?
For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the ribs for at least 4 hours, but you can extend it up to 24 hours. If marinating longer, consider transferring them to the fridge in an airtight container to prevent spills and ensure even flavor absorption.
Can I Grill These Ribs in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until they develop a nice glaze and are cooked through. You can even broil them for a few minutes at the end to get that charred effect.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Galbi?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If they seem dry, you can drizzle a little soy sauce or sesame oil to help enhance the flavor!
