Everything You Need to Know About Beef Bulgogi

As communication methods develop and the world shrinks, you will likely be exposed to more types of food than you have ever dreamed of. One of those types of food is a unique beef dish native to Korea called bulgogi.

But what is bulgogi? And can you make it yourself? We will answer all your questions about bulgogi in this article, so keep on reading! 

What is Bulgogi?

Bulgogi is actually a pretty simple dish when you discuss ingredients. In fact, the word ‘bulgogi’ simply means ‘fried meat’ in Korean. The main reason this dish is so famous is the unique methods used to cook it and the taste of the marinade it is soaked in. Surprisingly, bulgogi is just thinly sliced beef marinated in sauce.

Traditionally, the sauce is composed on soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, onion, and pear, and the beef is marinated overnight to achieve maximum tenderness. The next day, the beef will be grilled or stir fried, then served.

The result is a deliciously tender and flavorful cut of meat that can be enjoyed on its own, with pasta and more. 

It’s important to note that bulgogi recipes vary from family to family, with many choosing to change up one or two ingredients of the marinade. Not only that, but bulgogi styles vary from region to region, often producing much different results than expected. As such, you will likely never consume the same exact-tasting bulgogi twice! 

What Part of the Cow is Bulgogi?

Bulgogi is made from beef that has been so thinly sliced that the exact cut doesn’t make a huge difference, however, for best results you’ll want to choose a sirloin or ribeye—a cut with some fat and marbling, but not too much either.

To get the bulgogi thin enough, you’ll likely need a heavy-duty industrial meat slicer, or to ask the butcher to shave it down. Try to get the beef in thin enough slices that you can see through them but not so thin that it falls apart. 

Related: Steak Rankings: What Steak Cut is Best?

What is the Difference Between Pork Bulgogi and Beef Bulgogi

Although bulgogi has traditionally always been made with beef, in the modern age, pork bulgogi has become popular in many regions. It’s not really surprising when you consider how tasty beef bulgogi is!

As the name implies, pork bulgogi is made from pig meat instead of cow meat, but beyond that distinction, the method is the same. You mix the marinade, soak the meat overnight, then sauté or stir fry to perfection! 

What Does Bulgogi Taste Like?

Bulgogi is tender and juicy, carrying a mix of both sweet and savory flavors. Because the thin beef is marinated overnight, there won’t be much of a meaty taste remaining. 

Bulgogi recipes differ widely between regions and families, meaning the exact flavors of bulgogi are never the same—regardless, when you bite into bulgogi, you can expect a sweet and savory flavor explosion on your tongue! 

How to Make Bulgogi

Making bulgogi is easy, all you have to do is thinly slice beef, marinate overnight, then stir-fry and serve. While the exact marinade will vary from recipe to recipe, here is our recommendation:

• ½ cup pear juice
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 5 cloves garlic (minced or crushed)
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• ½ onion, finely diced
• 1 tbsp hot chili oil

Mix all these ingredients in a bowl, then add the thinly sliced beef. Marinate cover in the fridge for at least 12 hours, then remove from the bowl and fry and serve. 

How to Eat Bulgogi

One reason people love bulgogi is because of its versatility. Once you stir-fry or sauté the meat, there are a million things you can do with it, a few of which we have suggested below, but don’t be afraid to get creative!

1. Eaten on its Own

Bulgogi is tasty as is. Grab a fork or chopsticks and eat a slice on its own right off the grill! This is the most popular form of bulgogi in the United States and it is often found at Korean BBQ restaurants.

2. With Rice

A common traditional method of serving bulgogi is on top of rice with a side of steamed veggies. This method is healthy, and a quick and easy dinner for a crowd.

3. On Pizza

Bulgogi, thanks to its thinness and unique flavor, is the perfect pizza topping. Next time you want to venture out of your comfort zone, try bulgogi pizza instead of pepperoni.

4. In Tacos

In more recent years, Korean and Mexican fusion food has become popular, leading to the use of bulgogi in tacos. The thin meat is delicious in flavor, and extra spices can be added to give it a kick! 

5. Lettuce Wraps

Another traditional way of eating bulgogi is to get a leaf of lettuce, add some bulgogi to the middle, and add some kimchi and Korean BBQ sauce. Then, you have a delicious (and light) wrap.

6. Sandwiches

Leftover bulgogi makes an excellent sub or sandwich. Simply toss it on some bread with a little mayo and lettuce, and enjoy!

Is Beef Bulgogi Healthy?

Unfortunately, for how tasty beef bulgogi is, it isn’t that healthy. While it does have all the vitamins and minerals (such as B12) found in beef, it is also loaded with salt and sugar. 

This doesn’t mean you have to avoid bulgogi if you are on a diet, though! Instead, continue to enjoy bulgogi, but watch your portion size and ensure you pair the beef with some healthy (and unsalted) steamed veggies as a side. 

Where to Buy the Supplies to Make Bulgogi

Bulgogi must be made with thin and fresh beef, which you may be able to find from your local butcher. If you don’t have a local butcher, we recommend investing in your own meat slicer and buying from a premium online meat shop like Kolikof Caviar and Gourmet.

Not only is Kolikof’s known for its amazing quality of meat, but they also ship directly to your door in just 48 hours. Now that’s the Kolikof difference!