Galbi are delicious Korean grilled flanken ribs that are marinated in a tasty mix of soy sauce, sugar, and garlic. When cooked, they become tender and full of flavor!
I love firing up the grill for these ribs! They cook quickly, making it easy to enjoy a big plate of them with rice and veggies. Plus, who can resist that smoky char? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken-style Beef Short Ribs: These are key for a traditional galbi flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with regular beef short ribs or even pork ribs. Just remember that cooking times may vary!
Soy Sauce: This adds the essential savory depth. Consider using low-sodium soy sauce if you want to reduce salt intake. Tamari can be a good gluten-free option!
Brown Sugar: The sweetness from brown sugar balances the saltiness of soy. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, coconut sugar or honey works well but will slightly change the flavor.
Korean Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru): This spice adds a mild heat and wonderful color. If you prefer a milder dish, you can skip this or use a pinch of cayenne pepper instead!
Sesame Oil: It’s crucial for that nutty flavor. Feel free to use toasted sesame oil for a richer taste or substitute with olive oil in a pinch, though it won’t have the same flavor.
How Do I Marinate the Ribs for the Best Flavor?
Marinating is a critical step for galbi to soak up all those delicious flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine your marinade ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring the sugar dissolves well.
- Add the ribs, pressing them down to make sure every part is covered in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least three hours, but overnight is best. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
Don’t forget to reserve some marinade if you want to brush it on while grilling for extra flavor! However, avoid using it raw; do this only if you bring it to a boil before using it. This helps eliminate bacteria.
How to Make Galbi Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru), optional
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds flanken-style beef short ribs
For Garnishing:
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, and you’ll want to refrigerate the ribs for at least 3 hours (or better, overnight) to soak in all those delicious flavors. After marinating, cooking on the grill will take another 10 minutes. Get ready to enjoy some tasty BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and Korean red pepper flakes (if you want a bit of heat). Stir everything together until the sugar is fully dissolved. This marinade is going to give your ribs a wonderful flavor!
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Add the flanken-style beef short ribs to the marinade. Make sure each rib is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. If you have the time, let them sit overnight—this will really enhance the flavor!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, heat up your grill to medium-high. You want it hot enough to get a nice char on the ribs without burning them.
4. Grill the Ribs:
Take the marinated ribs out of the fridge and let any extra marinade drip off. Discard that marinade—you won’t need it anymore. Place the ribs on the grill and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a nice char and cook until they reach your desired doneness.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once the ribs are grilled, transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle the finely chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for a lovely finish. Serve your Galbi hot alongside rice and any favorite Korean side dishes like kimchi. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Another Type of Ribs?
Yes! While flanken-style ribs are ideal for this recipe, you can substitute them with other types like baby back ribs or short ribs. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might vary slightly, so check for doneness accordingly.
How Long Should I Marinate the Meat?
For the best flavor, marinate the ribs overnight. If you’re short on time, a minimum of 3 hours will also work, but the longer they sit in the marinade, the more flavorful they’ll be!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the ribs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Once grilled, leftover ribs can also be cooled and stored in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How to Reheat Leftover Galbi?
To reheat, place the ribs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can warm them up on the grill over indirect heat for a few minutes, which helps maintain their flavor and texture.
