Quick and Easy Homemade Bulgogi Recipe
[Mangaeng Baekgwa] EP. 28 Magical Bulgogi Ready in 5 Minutes
The ‘Mangaeng Baekgwa’ cooking bible that makes even beginner cooks shout ‘I’m a chef!’ This time, we’ll show you how to make everyone’s favorite national dish, Bulgogi, the easiest and fastest way. This savory and sweet Bulgogi is a guaranteed rice-thief, perfect as a standalone side dish or delicious served over warm rice. Try making delicious Bulgogi with Mangaeng’s recipe right now!
Essential Ingredients
- Beef (for Bulgogi) 300g – Using thinly sliced cuts will help the marinade penetrate well and shorten cooking time.
Golden Ratio Marinade
- Soy Sauce 3 Tbsp – You can use either regular or dark soy sauce; adjust sweetness to your liking.
- Sugar 1 Tbsp – Both white and brown sugar work well; adjust to your preference.
- Mirin (or Sake, Cooking Wine) 3 Tbsp – Removes any gamey smell from the beef and enhances flavor.
- Minced Green Onion 2 Tbsp – The fresh aroma of green onions elevates the taste of the Bulgogi.
- Minced Garlic 1 Tbsp – The distinct flavor of garlic adds depth to the marinade.
- Sesame Oil 1 Tbsp – Adds a nutty aroma, enhancing the overall dish.
- Black Pepper, a pinch – A hint of peppery spice balances richness.
Flavor Boosters (Optional)
- Corn Syrup or Maltose 1 Tbsp – Adds a glossy sheen and a subtle sweetness. (Optional)
- Soy Sauce 3 Tbsp – You can use either regular or dark soy sauce; adjust sweetness to your liking.
- Sugar 1 Tbsp – Both white and brown sugar work well; adjust to your preference.
- Mirin (or Sake, Cooking Wine) 3 Tbsp – Removes any gamey smell from the beef and enhances flavor.
- Minced Green Onion 2 Tbsp – The fresh aroma of green onions elevates the taste of the Bulgogi.
- Minced Garlic 1 Tbsp – The distinct flavor of garlic adds depth to the marinade.
- Sesame Oil 1 Tbsp – Adds a nutty aroma, enhancing the overall dish.
- Black Pepper, a pinch – A hint of peppery spice balances richness.
Flavor Boosters (Optional)
- Corn Syrup or Maltose 1 Tbsp – Adds a glossy sheen and a subtle sweetness. (Optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare 300g of beef for Bulgogi. If the pieces are too large, slice them into bite-sized pieces (about 1.5-2 inches) for better marinade penetration and easier stir-frying.
Step 2
Next, finely mince 2 tablespoons of green onion. The fresh scent of green onions will greatly enhance the flavor of your Bulgogi. You can use a food processor for a finer mince.
Step 3
Now for the most important part: marinating! In a large bowl, combine the sliced beef, minced green onions, soy sauce, sugar, mirin, minced garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper. Gently mix everything together with your hands, ensuring the marinade coats every piece of meat. This thorough mixing is key to delicious flavor. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 10-20 minutes for best results.
Step 4
Heat a lightly oiled pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry quickly. Keep stirring the meat frequently to prevent it from sticking to the pan and ensure even cooking without burning. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and has turned a nice golden brown.
Step 5
When the beef is almost cooked through, add 1 tablespoon of corn syrup (or maltose) and stir briefly. This will give the Bulgogi a beautiful glossy sheen and a hint of extra sweetness, making it even more appetizing.
Step 6
Finally, garnish with thinly sliced green onion (pajeori) for presentation and added flavor. Topping the Bulgogi with these fresh, crisp strands will provide a delightful texture and a burst of fresh aroma, further enhancing the dish. Serve generously over warm rice and enjoy!
