Sweet and Savory Bulgogi: The Golden Recipe
Authentic Beef Bulgogi Recipe (Also Great for Hot Pot) Inspired by Baek Jong-won
This recipe is inspired by Baek Jong-won’s renowned bulgogi. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender texture of this universally loved Korean dish, perfect for both stir-frying and hot pot.
Main Ingredients
- Beef (for Bulgogi) 600g
- Onion 1/2
- Chili peppers (e.g., Cheongyang or red) 2
- Scallion (white part mainly) 1/2 stalk
- Carrot 1/5 (about 1 handful)
Bulgogi Marinade
- White Sugar 2.5 Tbsp
- Corn Syrup or Oligosaccharide 1 Tbsp
- Finely Grated Onion 3 Tbsp
- Soy Sauce 6 Tbsp
- Minced Garlic 3 Tbsp
- Sesame Oil 3 Tbsp
- Black Pepper, a pinch
- White Sugar 2.5 Tbsp
- Corn Syrup or Oligosaccharide 1 Tbsp
- Finely Grated Onion 3 Tbsp
- Soy Sauce 6 Tbsp
- Minced Garlic 3 Tbsp
- Sesame Oil 3 Tbsp
- Black Pepper, a pinch
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
In a large bowl, place about 600g of beef sliced for bulgogi. Add 2.5 tablespoons of white sugar to sweeten and 1 tablespoon of corn syrup or oligosaccharide for a glossy finish. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes. The sugar helps tenderize the meat, resulting in a wonderfully soft texture.
Step 2
Now, prepare the savory marinade base. Add 6 tablespoons of soy sauce. Soy sauce provides the essential salty and umami flavor profile for the bulgogi.
Step 3
Next, add 3 tablespoons of minced garlic for aroma, 3 tablespoons of sesame oil for a nutty fragrance, and a pinch of black pepper. Garlic and sesame oil are key to enhancing the overall deliciousness of the bulgogi.
Step 4
Gently mix all the marinade ingredients with the beef using your hands, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Taking the time to thoroughly marinate the meat is crucial for maximum flavor absorption.
Step 5
Prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice half an onion. Cut about half a stalk of scallion, focusing on the white parts, into diagonal pieces. If you prefer a bit of heat, thinly slice 2 chili peppers (removing seeds if desired). Slice about 1/5 of a carrot thinly for color and sweetness.
Step 6
Add all the prepared vegetables to the marinated beef,
Step 7
and gently toss everything together, being careful not to mash the vegetables. This ensures the marinade coats both the meat and vegetables evenly, adding sweetness and a pleasant crunch.
Step 8
Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated beef and vegetables and stir-fry until cooked through and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure everything is cooked evenly.
Step 9
If you have a Korean earthenware pot (ttukbaegi), you can create a delicious ‘Ttukbaegi Bulgogi’ (Ttukbul). Place the marinated meat and vegetables in the pot, add a little water or broth, and simmer. Increasing the amount of vegetables and using broth will create a richer, more flavorful soup.
