If you are in the mood for a savory and mouthwatering dish, this Galbi (Korean beef marinade) is a must-try. Famous for its rich flavor profile, this Korean classic features tender beef short ribs marinated in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and mirin. It’s a delightful harmony of savory, sweet, and garlicky flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to Korea. Perfect for grilling, this dish promises to be the star of your table, whether you’re having a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends.
Tips to make the Galbi (Korean beef marinade) recipe:
1. Choose the Right Cut of Meat: Opt for beef short ribs with a good ratio of meat to fat. This ensures tenderness when grilled, as the fat renders down, adding a juicy texture to the ribs.
2. Marinate Overnight: To achieve the most flavor-packed result, marinate the beef for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows the marinade to deeply penetrate the meat, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and finely sliced onions enhance the overall flavor of the marinade. Bottled or pre-chopped versions can often lack the vibrancy needed for the best results.
4. Grill on High Heat: To achieve a perfect char and to lock in the delicious marinade flavors, grill the beef on high heat. This provides the ideal contrast between the crispy exterior and the juicy, tender interior.
How to Make Galbi (Korean beef marinade) Recipe?

Galbi (Korean Beef Marinade) Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Grill For cooking the beef
- 1 Mixing bowl For making the marinade
Ingredients
- 1 kg Beef short ribs Flanken-style cut
- 1/2 cup Soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Sesame oil
- 4 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 tbsp Ginger Grated
- 1/4 cup Pear juice Or grated pear
- 1 tbsp Rice vinegar
- to taste Black pepper
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, pear juice, rice vinegar, and black pepper.
- Add beef short ribs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove beef from the marinade and let excess marinade drip off.
- Grill the beef short ribs for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
- Serve hot with steamed rice and Korean side dishes.
Notes
Nutrition
Galbi is a delightful Korean dish that richly embodies the flavors of its cultural heritage. This beef marinade combines a perfect mix of ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil, creating a savory and subtly sweet taste that enhances the beef’s natural flavors. By allowing the meat to soak in this marinade, it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, making each bite a satisfying experience.
Preparing Galbi at home is not only about enjoying a delicious meal but also about experiencing a small part of Korean culture. It’s a fantastic dish to share with family and friends, offering an opportunity to explore new culinary horizons together. Whether you choose to grill, broil, or pan-fry the marinated beef, Galbi is sure to impress with its rich taste and inviting aroma.
Overall, trying your hand at making Galbi opens the door to a world of flavors and traditions. It encourages creativity in the kitchen and the joy of sharing food with others. When you savor this dish, you’re enjoying more than just a meal; you’re partaking in a cultural experience that has been cherished for generations.