Classic Korean Beef Tartare (Yukhoe)
Classic Korean Beef Tartare (Yukhoe)
Homemade Yukhoe Recipe: Simple, Delicious, and Impressive!
Experience the exquisite taste of fresh, savory Yukhoe, perfectly balanced with crisp, cool Korean pear. This delightful dish is sure to be a hit, pairing wonderfully with a glass of soju and making it an ideal appetizer or a sophisticated dish for entertaining guests. Learn how to make this impressive Korean beef tartare effortlessly at home!
Fresh Yukhoe Ingredients- 370g Top-grade Korean Beef Sirloin (cut for Yukhoe)
- 1/2 Korean Pear, crisp
- 1 Fresh Egg Yolk
Flavorful Seasoning Ingredients- 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1/3 Tbsp Salt
- 1/2 Tbsp Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Plum Extract (Maesil Cheong)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Pinch Black Pepper
- 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1/3 Tbsp Salt
- 1/2 Tbsp Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Plum Extract (Maesil Cheong)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Pinch Black Pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the seasoning sauce that will define the savory depth of your Yukhoe. In a small bowl, combine 1 Tbsp of soy sauce, 1/3 Tbsp of salt, 1 Tbsp of freshly minced garlic, 1 Tbsp of sesame oil, 1 Tbsp of plum extract (Maesil Cheong), and 1/2 Tbsp of sugar. Stir well with a spoon until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and the sugar has dissolved. This balanced blend is key to the Yukhoe’s deliciousness.
Step 2
Place the fresh Korean beef sirloin into a mixing bowl. Pour the prepared seasoning sauce over the beef. Now, using your hands, gently toss and mix the beef and sauce together. Ensure that the seasoning evenly coats every piece of meat. Be careful not to overwork the meat; a gentle massage will ensure it remains tender.
Step 3
To allow the flavors to meld beautifully, the seasoned Yukhoe needs a short resting period. Cover the bowl containing the seasoned beef tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for about 15-20 minutes, or while you are preparing the pear. This chilling process enhances the depth of flavor.
Step 4
While the beef is chilling, prepare the Korean pear, which offers a wonderful contrast to the Yukhoe. Wash the 1/2 Korean pear thoroughly, peel it, and then cut it into fine, julienne strips. Arrange the pear strips neatly on a serving plate or bowl. The crispness of the pear will beautifully complement the tender beef.
Step 5
Retrieve the chilled, seasoned Yukhoe from the refrigerator. Gently arrange it on top of the julienned pear. Using chopsticks or a fork, shape the beef slightly, creating a small, shallow well in the center where the egg yolk will be placed. A gentle mound, like a small crater, will make for a visually appealing presentation.
Step 6
Carefully place the fresh egg yolk into the well you created in the center of the Yukhoe. The vibrant yolk adds a rich, creamy texture and visual appeal to the dish. Its glossiness signals freshness and promises an even more decadent flavor experience when mixed with the beef.
Step 7
Finally, for an extra touch of flair and flavor, sprinkle some sesame seeds or lightly crushed black pepper over the top as desired. Your beautiful and delicious homemade Yukhoe is now ready to be enjoyed! It pairs perfectly with steamed rice or a chilled glass of soju. Enjoy your culinary creation!
