These Grilled Korean Short Ribs, or Galbi, are juicy and packed with flavor. Marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, they are perfect for grilling up on a sunny day with friends!
I love how easy they are to cook! Just marinate, grill, and enjoy a finger-licking meal. Remember to have some napkins close by; you’ll need them! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: Flanken-style short ribs are ideal as they have the right amount of meat and bone for flavor. If not available, you can use English-style ribs, which are thicker but still tasty.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce gives a fantastic flavor, but for a lighter option, try low-sodium soy sauce to reduce saltiness. If gluten-free, consider tamari sauce.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you prefer a less processed sweetener, you can use coconut sugar or maple syrup as a substitute.
Rice Wine/Mirin: These add a lovely depth to the marinade. If you don’t have them, dry sherry or white wine can work in a pinch.
Ginger & Garlic: Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic really elevate the flavors. If you’re short on time, you can use powdered forms, but fresh is always best for taste.
How Do You Get the Perfect Grill Marks on the Ribs?
Grilling short ribs to perfection is all about technique. Here’s how to achieve lovely grill marks and flavor:
- First, ensure the grill is hot before placing the ribs on it. This helps sear the meat and lock in juices.
- Don’t move the ribs around too much. After placing them on the grill, let them cook undisturbed for 3-5 minutes on each side to get those beautiful char marks.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for 145°F for medium-rare. This ensures the meat stays juicy.
Resting the ribs for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, making them even more delicious!
How to Make Grilled Korean Short Ribs (Galbi)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds of beef short ribs, flanken-style (cut across the bones)
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup rice wine (or mirin)
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 3 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish requires about 15 minutes for preparation and a minimum of 4 hours to marinate (overnight is best!). Grilling takes around 10 minutes. In total, set aside about 4 hours and 25 minutes, with most of that time being just letting the ribs soak up the flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice wine (or mirin), grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions. Mix well until the brown sugar dissolves completely. This marinade is the key to getting those amazing Korean flavors into your ribs!
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Add the short ribs to your marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours. If you have time, letting them marinate overnight will give you a deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your ribs will get that nice char on the outside while staying juicy inside.
4. Grill the Ribs:
Take the short ribs out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place them on the hot grill. Grill each side for about 3-5 minutes. You want to see a lovely char and ensure they are cooked to your preference (at least 145°F for medium-rare).
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once the ribs are cooked, take them off the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with additional chopped green onions and sesame seeds for some extra flavor and a nice look!
6. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious grilled Korean short ribs with lettuce leaves, rice, and any dipping sauces you enjoy for a complete meal. Wrap the ribs in the lettuce and enjoy each bite!
This recipe brings out the wonderful flavors of Korean cuisine and is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy your grilling!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flanken-style short ribs are traditional, you can also use beef short ribs that are cut in a different style, such as English-style ribs. Just be aware that cooking times may vary depending on the cut, so always check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge. This way, when you’re ready to make the ribs, all you have to do is marinate the meat. Just give the marinade a quick stir before using it to ensure everything is well mixed.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them until warmed through or place them on a hot grill for a few minutes to regain that grilled flavor.
Can I Use a Grill Pan Instead of an Outdoor Grill?
Definitely! A grill pan can work just as well. Preheat it over medium-high heat, and follow the same grilling times. You may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, allowing each piece to get a nice char.
