Korean BBQ meat sizzles with layers of sweet soy, toasted sesame, and rich garlic, brightened by a splash of apple juice and a touch of rice vinegar. As the beef absorbs the bold marinade, it recalls the energy of street markets and lively backyard grills. Each slice hits the heat and caramelizes beautifully, forming charred edges that stay tender and juicy. Finished with crisp scallions and cool kimchi slaw, this flavorful favorite delivers the perfect balance of savory heat and freshness that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This korean bbq meat
- It’s packed with bold, savory flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
- Grilling brings out the juiciness, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Customizable with your favorite marinades and sides for a personal touch.
- A fun way to enjoy a traditional dish right in your own backyard!

korean bbq meat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, black pepper, and half the green onions.
- Add beef short ribs to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, getting it nice and hot for that perfect sear.
- Grill the marinated beef for 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through.
- Garnish with the remaining green onions and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for that extra crunch.
- Serve hot with lettuce wraps and ssamjang for a delightful Korean BBQ experience!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 10g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for your delicious Korean BBQ meat!

- 1 lb thinly sliced beef short ribs (galbi) – for a tender and rich flavor
- 1/4 cup soy sauce – provides savory depth
- 2 tbsp brown sugar – adds a hint of sweetness
- 1 tbsp sesame oil – for a nutty aroma
- 4 cloves garlic (minced) – boosts flavor with freshness
- 1 tsp grated ginger – adds a spicy kick
- 2 green onions (sliced) – for freshness and garnish
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar – a great substitute for rice wine to add tang
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – for a subtle heat
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds – for texture and flavor
How to Make Korean BBQ Meat
This delicious Korean BBQ meat recipe is perfect for a fun gathering! With a preparation time of 30 minutes, cooking time of 6 minutes, and a marinating time of up to overnight, you’ll have juicy, flavor-packed beef ready to impress your friends and family.

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, black pepper, and half the green onions.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
Add beef short ribs to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
Step 3: Chill and Rest
Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, getting it nice and hot for that perfect sear.
Step 5: Grill the Beef
Grill the marinated beef for 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through.
Step 6: Garnish
Garnish with the remaining green onions and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for that extra crunch.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with lettuce wraps and ssamjang for a delightful Korean BBQ experience!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Korean |
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 6 minutes |
| Extra Time | 12-24 hours (marinating) |
| Total Time | 42 minutes |
| Dietary | High Protein |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot with lettuce wraps and ssamjang! |
Pro Tips for Making Korean BBQ Meat
- Marinate the meat overnight for deeper flavor.
- Use a mix of soy sauce and apple juice for a sweet-savory marinade.
- Grill on high heat for a nice char and juicy interior.
- Let the meat rest before slicing to retain juices.
- Serve with fresh lettuce leaves for a refreshing wrap.
How to Serve this korean bbq meat
- Serve with a side of fluffy steamed rice for a classic combo.
- Wrap in crisp lettuce leaves with a dollop of ssamjang for a fresh bite.
- Pair with kimchi and pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.
- Top with sesame seeds and green onions for an extra flavor boost.
- Enjoy with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness.
- Serve alongside grilled corn on the cob for a fun twist.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces like soy sauce or spicy gochujang.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your Korean BBQ meat later is easy!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the meat to cool completely.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Wrap the meat tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
- Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What meat is used in Korean barbecue?
Korean barbecue typically features a variety of meats, with beef being the most popular choice. Cuts like ribeye, sirloin, and brisket are commonly used due to their tenderness and flavor. You can also find chicken and seafood options, but beef remains the star of the show!
2. What is the thin meat at Korean barbecue?
The thin meat often seen at Korean barbecue is usually sliced beef, such as bulgogi or thinly sliced ribeye. These cuts are marinated and grilled quickly, making them incredibly tender and flavorful. The thinness allows for a quick cook, enhancing the overall experience of the barbecue!
3. What’s the best cut of meat for bulgogi?
The best cut of meat for bulgogi is typically sirloin or ribeye. These cuts are well-marbled, which means they have a good amount of fat that keeps the meat juicy and flavorful when grilled. The marinating process also helps to tenderize the meat, making it a delicious choice for this classic dish!
4. What is galbi vs bulgogi?
Galbi and bulgogi are both popular Korean barbecue dishes, but they differ in preparation and cut. Galbi refers to marinated beef short ribs, which are grilled and often have a sweet and savory flavor. On the other hand, bulgogi is made from thinly sliced beef, marinated in a soy sauce-based mixture, and grilled quickly. Both are delicious but offer different textures and tastes!
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this easy and authentic Korean BBQ meat recipe, it’s time to fire up the grill and savor those delicious flavors! Remember, cooking should be fun and rewarding, so gather your friends and family, and enjoy this delightful dish together. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create a memorable meal!

