Galbi are delicious Korean grilled ribs that are tender, sweet, and packed with flavor! They are cut into thin slices and marinated in a tasty mix of soy sauce, sugar, and garlic.
Nothing beats the smell of these ribs sizzling on the grill! I love serving them with rice and veggies. It’s like a little feast that brings everyone together (and makes your kitchen smell amazing!).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken-style beef ribs: This is the star of the dish. If you can’t find flanken ribs, short ribs can be a good substitute, although they may need a bit more cooking time.
Soy sauce: A key ingredient for flavor, but if you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, try using reduced-sodium soy sauce. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative you can use as well.
Brown sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile, but remember they might alter the sweetness level slightly.
Sesame oil: It adds a nice nutty flavor, but if you’re out, you can use canola or vegetable oil. Just remember to drizzle a little toasted sesame oil at the end for that special touch!
Rice wine (mirin): If you don’t have mirin, you can use dry sherry or even apple cider vinegar mixed with a little sugar as a substitute.
How Do You Marinate for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating the ribs is crucial for flavor. Start by mixing your marinade ingredients well to dissolve the sugar. This allows the flavors to soak in evenly. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Use a large enough bowl to comfortably fit the ribs and marinade.
- Let the ribs marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for deep flavor.
- During marination, flip the ribs halfway if possible to ensure even coating.
How to Make Galbi (Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 pounds flanken-style beef ribs
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup rice wine (mirin) or dry sherry
- 1/4 cup garlic, minced (about 5-6 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 3 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and get everything ready. Then, you’ll need at least 4 hours to marinate the ribs (overnight is best). Grilling will take approximately 10-12 minutes, so you’ll be savoring your delicious Galbi in about 4 hours and 30 minutes total, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice wine, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green onions. Mix it all well until the sugar is dissolved. This fragrant marinade is what makes the ribs so tasty!
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Place the flanken-style ribs into the bowl with the marinade. Make sure the ribs are fully submerged in the tasty mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and put it in the fridge. Let them marinate for at least 4 hours; for the best flavor, try to let them soak overnight!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Before you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure to prepare the coals for direct heat so that the ribs get a nice char.
4. Grill the Ribs:
Take the marinated ribs out of the fridge and remove them from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place them on the hot grill. Grill the ribs for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely charred and cooked to your liking. Don’t be afraid to keep an eye on them—you want that perfect crust!
5. Serve:
Once the ribs are grilled to perfection, transfer them to a serving plate. For that extra touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and a little more chopped green onions on top as a garnish.
6. Enjoy:
Serve the Galbi immediately! They’re perfect alongside steamed rice and some traditional Korean side dishes (banchan). Enjoy each flavorful bite—you’ve earned it!
Enjoy your delicious Galbi!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat for This Recipe?
Yes! While flanken-style ribs are traditional for galbi, you can also use short ribs or even beef chuck if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary with different cuts, so adjust accordingly to ensure they are tender and flavorful.
How Long Should I Marinate the Ribs?
For the best flavor, marinate the ribs for at least 4 hours, but if you have the time, overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a deliciously savory taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Galbi?
Leftover galbi can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ribs on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or you can microwave them for a quick option.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the ribs a day ahead. Just store the marinating ribs in the fridge, then grill them when you’re ready to enjoy. This makes for a quicker prep time on the day of grilling!
