This easy beef bulgogi recipe features tender, marinated steak cooked to perfection in minutes. Serve with rice or in lettuce wraps for a flavorful meal.
Prep Time1 hourhr10 minutesmins
Cook Time10 minutesmins
Total Time1 hourhr20 minutesmins
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Korean
Diet: Low Lactose
Keyword: beef bulgogi, bulgogi, Korean BBQ, Korean beef bulgogi
Freeze and Slice the Steak: Wrap the steak in plastic wrap and freeze for 30 minutes to make slicing easier. Unwrap and slice against the grain into ¼-inch pieces.
Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, mashed kiwi, garlic, red pepper flakes, ground ginger, and oyster sauce.
Marinate the Steak: Add the sliced steak to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Cook the Beef: Heat oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Serve: Transfer to a plate and top with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve with rice (white, brown, or red) or enjoy in a lettuce wrap.
Notes
Thinly Slice the Beef: Freeze the steak for 30 minutes before slicing for easier cutting.
Cut Against the Grain: Position the steak so the fibers run left to right, then slice perpendicular to them for a tender texture.
Marinate for Flavor: Coat the beef well and let it marinate for at least an hour.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if needed to keep the meat from steaming.
Use Pre-Sliced Beef: Many stores sell thinly sliced beef, a convenient option for quick meals.
How To Toast Sesame SeedsToasting sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and enhances their crunch. Spread the sesame seeds in a thin layer on a skillet. Cook over medium heat for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.