Authentic Korean Beef Bulgogi at Home

How to Make Authentic Korean Beef Bulgogi at Home

If you had to choose only one dish for a Korean dinner, beef bulgogi would be an excellent choice. It’s one of the most iconic and beloved Korean dishes, known for its rich, sweet, and savory flavors. Today, we’re going to walk through a simple yet delicious way to make bulgogi at home, so you can enjoy this classic dish anytime.

What is Bulgogi?

Bulgogi literally means “fire meat,” referring to the traditional method of grilling marinated beef over an open flame. However, it can also be cooked in a pan, making it a versatile and easy dish to prepare at home.

The key to great bulgogi is thinly sliced beef, marinated in a flavorful mix of soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and other seasonings. Served with rice, kimchi, and fresh greens, it creates a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious bulgogi, you’ll need:

600g thinly sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin works best)

1 onion (thinly sliced)

5 green onions (cut into long strips)

1 carrot (julienned)

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Marinade:

2.5 tablespoons soy sauce

2.5 tablespoons oyster sauce

2.5 tablespoons sugar

½ tablespoon mirin

2 tablespoons minced garlic

2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

A few shakes of black pepper

How to Prepare Bulgogi

1. Prepare the Beef

If you don’t have pre-sliced beef, you can place a steak in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This makes it firm and easier to slice thinly. Once sliced, place the beef in a mixing bowl.

2. Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, mirin, minced garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved. Pour this marinade over the beef and mix well, massaging the flavors into the meat. Let it rest in the fridge for at least 15 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

3. Prepare the Vegetables

Slice the onion and green onions.

If the white parts of the green onions are too thick, slice them in half.

Julien the carrot to add a pop of color and texture.

4. Cook the Bulgogi

Heat a wok or pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil.

Sauté half of the green onions, onions, and carrots for about 2-3 minutes.

Increase the heat to medium-high and add half of the marinated beef. Cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Repeat the process with the remaining vegetables and beef.

Serving Suggestions

Bulgogi is best served with:

Steamed rice

Lettuce wraps

Kimchi

Samjang (Korean dipping sauce)

Soft-boiled eggs

For a restaurant-style presentation, serve it in a hot Korean stone bowl or a cast iron pan. Garnish with sesame seeds, microgreens, or leftover cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.

Final Thoughts

This homemade beef bulgogi is incredibly simple, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week. The balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors makes it irresistible. Pair it with kimchi for an added spicy and tangy kick, and you’ll have a complete Korean meal.

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out. Enjoy your homemade bulgogi!