Korean BBQ Beef Bowl (easy melt-in-your-mouth Bulgogi)
This Korean BBQ Beef Bowl (Easy Bulgogi) is a simple yet satisfying recipe. With tender, thinly sliced beef in a savoury marinade, this dish is a quick favourite for any weeknight meal.
If you’re loving this Korean BBQ Beef Bowl, you’ll definitely want to try some of our other quick and satisfying recipes. For a simple appetizer that’s full of flavour, check out our Easy Turkey Wontons—they’re perfect for any gathering. If you’re in the mood for sushi-inspired bites, these Baked Salmon Sushi Cups bring that popular TikTok trend straight to your table. Need a speedy dinner? Our 15-Minute Udon Noodles is a go-to for busy weeknights. Or, spice things up with Japanese Spicy Tuna Onigiri, an easy snack with a kick.
For those wanting to explore more Korean-style dishes, learn How to Make Korean Keema for a unique twist on a classic. Our Turkey Mince Noodles is another quick, tasty option with a lean protein base. And if you’re into homemade bread, the Soft Buns Recipe Using the Tangzhong Method will help you master pillowy, bakery-style buns.
Korean BBQ Beef Bowl (Easy Bulgogi)
Coming from a traditional Romanian background, I didn’t have much exposure to Korean cuisine—at least, not until the internet made global recipes accessible and my family moved to the UK. Back in Romania, Asian restaurants were around but pricey, and we weren’t quite sure what we’d think of the flavours and ingredients. But since settling in the UK, we’ve made it a mission to try new cuisines and dive into foods from all corners of the world.
Our curiosity and love for all things different from our culture have made exploring food an adventure we can’t resist. Asian cuisine, especially, has become a real interest of mine, with its unique spices, fascinating ingredients, and techniques that feel so new. I’m excited to keep learning, adapting, and maybe even mastering these delicious dishes one day!
Hence my curiosity about this Korean BBQ Beef Bowl—also known as Bulgogi. In Korean, “bul” means fire, and “gogi” means meat, so bulgogi is traditionally grilled over an open flame. However, this version makes it easy to whip up at home on the stovetop, capturing the deliciously marinated, tender beef without needing a grill. It’s a wonderful mix of savoury and sweet that’s quick to prepare and full of satisfying bites.
Ingredients in Korean BBQ Beef
- Beef sirloin steak: Tender and flavorful, this cut is ideal for bulgogi. Thin slices help it cook quickly and soak up the marinade.
- Light Soy sauce: Adds the rich, savoury foundation for the marinade.
- Brown sugar: Balances the saltiness and brings a hint of sweetness.
- Green and yellow onions: Offer freshness and a bit of crunch.
- Sesame oil and sesame seeds: These give the dish its characteristic nutty undertone.
- Garlic and ginger: Essential for that authentic bulgogi taste.
- Korean red pepper flakes: Add mild heat without overpowering, though you can adjust to taste.
- Honey: Adds depth to the sweetness; optional if you like your bulgogi a bit less sweet.
What is Bulgogi?
Bulgogi is a Korean dish of thinly sliced, marinated beef, typically grilled or stir-fried. The name means “fire meat,” combining savory and slightly sweet flavors in tender, juicy bites.
How to Make Korean BBQ Beef Bowl (Easy Bulgogi)
Get ready to make a delicious Korean BBQ Beef Bowl (Easy Bulgogi)! This step-by-step guide with process shots will walk you through creating tender, marinated beef packed with flavour. Perfect for a quick meal or weeknight treat!
- In a large bowl, mix together the marinade ingredients until well combined. Add the thinly sliced beef strips, tossing to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover the bowl and let the beef marinate in the fridge for at least an hour, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavour.
- Warm a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil. Add the marinated beef and cook, stirring now and then, for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and fully done. Let the marinade thicken into a sauce, adding a touch of water or broth if it reduces too much.
- For a vibrant side, toss sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, and pumpkin in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill until tender and lightly charred.
- Assemble the Bowl: Layer the beef over steamed rice, drizzle with sauce, and add the grilled veggies. Finish with green onions, sesame seeds, and thinly sliced yellow onions for extra crunch.
Substitutions
- Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free version or coconut aminos for a milder taste.
- Brown Sugar: Swap for honey or maple syrup.
- Beef Sirloin: Try ribeye or flank steak for a slightly different texture.
Variations
- Spicy Bulgogi: Add gochujang (Korean chilli paste) to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Chicken Bulgogi: Swap the beef for chicken thighs for a leaner option.
- Vegan Bulgogi: Replace beef with mushrooms or tofu; marinate and cook similarly.
Storage
Refrigerate leftover bulgogi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply toss it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For a freezer option, marinate the beef and freeze it raw in a bag for up to 2 months. Just defrost and cook when you’re ready!
You can easily reheat the beef and veggies in a skillet over medium heat or the microwave. The leftovers make a quick and satisfying meal on their own or can be repurposed! Here are a few ideas:
- Korean Beef Wraps: Use lettuce or tortilla wraps, add the beef, grilled veggies, a bit of rice, and any fresh toppings like sliced cucumber or radish.
- Stir-Fry: Sauté any leftover rice with the beef and veggies for a quick stir-fry. Add a splash of soy sauce or a dash of chilli for an extra kick.
- Bulgogi Fried Rice: Chop the beef and veggies, then mix them into fried rice along with an egg, green onions, and sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this melt-in-your-mouth bulgogi over steamed rice, alongside kimchi, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. Top with extra green onions and sesame seeds for added texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, flank or ribeye steak works well in this recipe. Just be sure to slice it thinly.
How long should I marinate the beef?
At least 30 minutes, though 1-2 hours is ideal for maximum flavour.
Is this dish spicy?
Not particularly. The red pepper flakes add mild heat, but you can adjust to taste.
More Asian-inspired recipes you might try
HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to my newsletter and follow along on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram for all of the latest updates.
Korean BBQ Beef Bowl (Easy Bulgogi)
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Skillet
- Sharp knife or kitchen shears
Ingredients
- ½ cup light soy sauce 120 ml
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1 yellow onion thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar 30 g
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds white or black
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil 15 ml
- ¼ teaspoon Korean red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon minced fresh ginger 1 g
- a pinch of ground black pepper
- 1 ½ pounds beef sirloin steak cut very thin using kitchen shears (680 g)
- 1 teaspoon honey or to taste (5 ml)
Instructions
Marinate the Beef:
- In a large bowl, combine ½ cup light soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, ½ teaspoon minced ginger, ¼ teaspoon Korean red pepper flakes, and a pinch of ground black pepper. Mix well. Add thinly sliced beef (about 1½ pounds of sirloin or ribeye cut into small strips) and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for best flavor.
Cook the Beef with Sauce:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Once hot, add the marinated beef strips along with all the marinade. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is cooked through and browned. As it cooks, the marinade will reduce, thickening into a rich sauce that coats the beef. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or beef broth to maintain a nice consistency.
Serve with Grilled Vegetables:
- For a colorful and nutritious addition, grill a mix of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli. Toss them lightly in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling until tender and slightly charred.
Assemble the Bowl:
- Serve the beef over a bed of steamed rice, spoon the sauce over it, and add a side of grilled vegetables. Top with chopped green onions, extra sesame seeds, and thinly sliced yellow onions for added crunch and freshness.
Video
Notes
Tips and Tricks
- Thin Slices: For extra-thin slices, place the beef in the freezer for 20 minutes before slicing.
- Marinate in Advance: Marinating the beef for a few hours gives the best results.