Korean Beef Bulgogi

Wed, 20 May 2026

Korean Beef Bulgogi

Sweet, savoury and full of flavour, Bulgogi is one of Korea’s most loved dishes. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick homemade Korean meal and can be served with steamed rice, kimchi or lettuce wraps.

Serves 2–3 people

Preparation Time 10 minutes + 20 minutes marinating time

Cooking Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

- 400g thinly sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin)

- 1/2 onion, sliced

- 1 spring onion, sliced

- 1/3 carrot, sliced (optional)

- 50g mushrooms (optional)

- Sesame seeds for garnish

# Bulgogi Marinade

- 5 Tbsp soy sauce

- 2 Tbsp sugar or honey

- 1 Tbsp sesame oil

- 2 cloves garlic, grated

- 1/2 grated pear or onion

- Black pepper

Method

1. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, grated pear and black pepper.

2. Add the sliced beef and coat thoroughly in the marinade. Leave to marinate for at least 20 minutes if time allows or leave it in the fridge overnight for extra flavour.

3. Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat.

4. Add the beef and cook for 4–5 minutes until caramelised and glossy.

5. Add the sliced onion, spring onion and carrot. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until softened.

6. Finish with sesame seeds and serve with steamed rice.

Chef’s Tip

Grated pear is traditionally used in Korean bulgogi marinade as it naturally tenderises the beef while adding subtle sweetness and authentic flavour.