Tender Korean Bulgogi (Beef Marinated in Sweet Soy Sauce)
Tender Korean Bulgogi (Beef Marinated in Sweet Soy Sauce)
The Ultimate Flavor Experience: Tender and Savory Korean Bulgogi
Treat yourself to a delicious bowl of tender Korean bulgogi, a perfect reward for your hard work. We’ve meticulously removed the blood from the beef and marinated it in a golden ratio of sweet and savory sauce for an unforgettable depth of flavor. Whether served as a side dish with rice or as a centerpiece for a special meal, this homemade bulgogi is simply irresistible! It’s a delightful treat you deserve.
Main Ingredients- 600g thinly sliced beef for bulgogi (sirloin or ribeye recommended)
- 1 medium onion
- A few dried shiitake mushrooms (or 2-3 fresh shiitake mushrooms)
- 1 large green onion (scallion)
Special Marinade- 6 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 3 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp corn syrup or oligodang
- 2 Tbsp cooking wine (mirin)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- Pinch of black pepper
- Pinch of toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 6 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 3 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp corn syrup or oligodang
- 2 Tbsp cooking wine (mirin)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- Pinch of black pepper
- Pinch of toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
The first step to delicious bulgogi is blood removal. Soak the thinly sliced beef in cold water for about 30 minutes to drain out any excess blood. This ensures a clean taste and prevents any gamey odor.
Step 2
After draining the blood, lightly marinate the beef with 1 Tbsp of sugar, 2 Tbsp of cooking wine, and a pinch of black pepper. This pre-marination step helps tenderize the meat and further eliminate any unwanted odors.
Step 3
Rehydrate the dried shiitake mushrooms by soaking them in lukewarm water for about 15-20 minutes. If using fresh shiitake mushrooms, simply wash them and remove the tough stems. Slice the green onion into large pieces, and thinly slice the onion. (For added color and texture, you can also thinly slice a carrot).
Step 4
Now, let’s create the magical marinade that will define your bulgogi! In a bowl, combine 6 Tbsp soy sauce, 2 Tbsp plum extract, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 3 Tbsp sugar, 2 Tbsp corn syrup, and 2 Tbsp cooking wine. Whisk everything together until well combined. Finish by stirring in 1 Tbsp sesame oil and a pinch of toasted sesame seeds. Your delicious marinade is ready!
Step 5
Pour the prepared marinade over the pre-marinated beef. Gently mix and massage the marinade into the meat, ensuring every piece is well-coated. For an even richer flavor, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer.
Step 6
Add the prepared vegetables (sliced onion, rehydrated shiitake mushrooms, and green onion) to the marinated beef. Gently toss everything together, being careful not to break the vegetables. Ensure they are evenly distributed with the meat.
Step 7
Heat a wide pan over medium heat. Add the marinated beef and vegetables. Stir-fry until the beef is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The natural juices from the vegetables will mix with the marinade, creating a wonderfully moist and flavorful bulgogi. Once cooked, remove from heat and enjoy this delicious dish! You’ve worked hard today, my dear! Enjoy your meal! ^^
