When it comes to Asian cuisine, few dishes are as iconic or flavorful as Korean BBQ. The combination of sweet and spicy marinades, tender meat, and bold seasonings has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of foodies around the world. And at the center of it all is Korean beef – a staple ingredient that can be cooked in countless ways to create mouthwatering meals.
From classic dishes like bulgogi and galbi to innovative fusion recipes, Korean beef is incredibly versatile and adaptable. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different ways to cook with Korean beef, from savory stir-fries to spicy tacos and everything in between. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these flavorful recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Korean Beef Bulgogi
A classic Korean dish that’s sweet, savory, and umami all at once, bulgogi is a must-try for any beef lover. This recipe brings together the bold flavors of soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil to create a mouthwatering marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), preferably ribeye or sirloin
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili flakes, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the beef to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Korean Beef Stir-Fry
Satisfy your cravings with this bold and flavorful stir-fry that combines the richness of beef with the spicy kick of Korean chili flakes. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Add beef strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
4. In same wok, add remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return beef to wok and stir in with vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Beef Short Ribs (Galbi)
Experience the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with this classic Galbi recipe, featuring tender and juicy beef short ribs smothered in a sweet and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili flakes, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the short ribs to the marinade and let it sit for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the ribs for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Remove from the oven and brush with rice vinegar and water. Serve with steamed bok choy and kimchi.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Korean Beef Bibimbap
This classic Korean dish is a harmonious blend of savory beef, crunchy vegetables, and fluffy rice, all topped with a fried egg and served with a side of spicy chili pepper paste.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), such as ribeye or sirloin
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, zucchini, carrots, mushrooms)
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, cook the beef in sesame oil until browned. Add Gochujang, soy sauce, and salt; stir-fry for 2 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender. Set aside.
4. Cook the eggs in a separate pan and set aside.
5. To assemble, place a scoop of rice on a plate, followed by beef and vegetable mixture. Top with fried egg and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Beef Tacos with Gochujang Sauce
A fusion twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean BBQ with the crunch and freshness of a taco. Marinated beef short ribs are simmered in a sweet and spicy gochujang sauce, served in a crispy taco shell with kimchi slaw and cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 2 tbsp gochujang paste
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Kimchi slaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped cilantro
– Lime wedges
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Add beef short ribs to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook beef short ribs for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing beef short ribs and serving with kimchi slaw, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Korean Beef and Rice Bowls
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Korea with this easy-to-make recipe for beef and rice bowls. Marinated beef short ribs, crispy kimchi slaw, and fluffy white rice come together in a harmonious balance of sweet, spicy, and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup kimchi slaw (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds and toasted sesame oil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate beef in soy sauce, brown sugar, Gochujang, and garlic for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill or pan-fry beef until caramelized and cooked through.
3. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
4. Top rice with marinated beef, kimchi slaw, and thinly sliced green onion.
5. Drizzle with toasted sesame oil and garnish with sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Korean Beef Japchae (Glass Noodles)
A classic Korean dish that combines sweet potato glass noodles with a savory beef and vegetable stir-fry. This recipe is a simple and flavorful take on the traditional Korean dish.
Ingredients:
– 200g sweet potato starch noodles
– 1/2 pound beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the sweet potato starch noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, Gochujang, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes to combine.
5. Return beef to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Beef Dumplings (Mandu)
A classic Korean dish, Mandu is a savory delight filled with tender beef and wrapped in a delicate dumpling wrapper. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Water for wrapping
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the beef mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook Mandu by steaming them for 8-10 minutes, or pan-frying them in hot oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Beef Kimchi Stew
Warm up with a spicy and savory Korean-inspired stew that combines tender beef, crunchy kimchi, and comforting noodles. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup noodles (such as rice cakes or udon)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add kimchi, Gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, sugar, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stir in noodles and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Beef Lettuce Wraps
These Korean-inspired beef lettuce wraps combine the bold flavors of Gochujang and soy sauce with the crunch of fresh lettuce, all wrapped up in a satisfying and easy-to-make package.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 4-6 lettuce leaves ( Napa or Romaine work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the wraps by placing a few slices of beef onto a warmed lettuce leaf, followed by a sprinkle of green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Beef Skewers with Sesame Glaze
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with these tender beef skewers smothered in a sweet and savory sesame glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Wooden skewers, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. Add beef cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread marinated beef onto wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together toasted sesame seeds and 1 tablespoon water. Brush glaze over grilled beef during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean Beef Fried Rice
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with the comfort of a classic fried rice dish. Savor the sweet and spicy combination of marinated beef, savory vegetables, and fragrant kimchi in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin), marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and kimchi; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked beef back into the pan and stir-fry with the vegetables.
6. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, Gochujang, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until the rice is well coated and heated through.
7. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Beef Hot Pot (Jeongol)
Experience the warmth and comfort of a traditional Korean hot pot with this easy-to-make recipe for beef jeongol. Served with a variety of dipping options, this hearty dish is perfect for cold winter nights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or short ribs, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cups vegetables of your choice (e.g., bean sprouts, zucchini, carrots)
– Noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine Gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef broth and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the beef is tender.
4. Add your preferred vegetables to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve with noodles or rice and your favorite dipping options.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Beef and Tofu Soup (Soondubu)
This comforting soup is a staple in Korean cuisine, featuring tender beef, soft tofu, and a rich broth. Soondubu is perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s both nourishing and flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef and soy sauce. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until beef is browned.
2. Add tofu, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in beef broth and Gochujang. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Beef Pancakes (Jeon)
Savor the crispy exterior and juicy interior of these flavorful Korean-style pancakes, packed with tender beef and crunchy vegetables. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup diced beef (bulgogi-style), cooked and cooled
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and water to form a smooth batter.
2. Add zucchini, onion, beef, egg, and salt. Mix well.
3. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the batter into the oil.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until crispy and golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with a variety of colorful vegetables and tender beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, onion, bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas to the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the Gochujang, soy sauce, and salt. Pour the sauce into the pan and stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked beef back into the pan and stir to coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Beef Curry with Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this hearty beef curry dish served over a bed of fluffy rice. Marinated beef short ribs are slow-cooked in a rich and spicy curry sauce, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Marinate the beef short ribs in a mixture of Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate pot, combine sliced onion and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the cooked beef, Korean chili flakes, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Serve the curry over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Korean Beef and Egg Rice Bowl (Gyeran Bap)
A comforting and flavorful Korean-inspired meal that combines juicy beef, savory eggs, and fluffy rice in a single bowl. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 pound beef (such as ribeye or sirloin), sliced into thin strips
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Push beef to one side of the pan. Crack in eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with beef. Add Gochujang mixture and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Divide cooked rice into bowls. Top with beef and egg mixture. Garnish with green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 18 flavorful Korean beef recipes! From classic dishes like Bulgogi and Galbi, to international twists like Beef Tacos and Japchae Noodles, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making Bibimbap bowls or Kimchi stew, or go bold with spicy stir-fries and hot pots. With a range of ingredients and cooking methods, these recipes are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this collection has everything you need to bring the bold flavors of Korea to your table.
