Savory Soy-Braised Beef (Ganjang Bulgogi)
How to Make Deliciously Sweet and Savory Soy-Braised Beef at Home
Leftover sirloin beef was thinly sliced and simmered in a savory soy sauce-based marinade with onions. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightful home-style dish.
Main Ingredients- Beef sirloin (or thinly sliced beef for bulgogi) – as much as you have
- 1 Onion
Soy Marinade- 3 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 Tbsp Mirin (Rice Wine)
- 1 Tbsp MSG (optional, for enhanced flavor)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- Pinch of Black Pepper
- 3 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 Tbsp Mirin (Rice Wine)
- 1 Tbsp MSG (optional, for enhanced flavor)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- Pinch of Black Pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the beef by thinly slicing it for bulgogi, or if you have sirloin, slice it as thinly as possible. Slice the onion into bite-sized pieces, similar in size to the beef, either thinly sliced or diced.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine the sliced beef and onions. Add the soy sauce (3 Tbsp), mirin (2 Tbsp), MSG (1 Tbsp, for umami and sweetness), sesame oil (1 Tbsp), and a pinch of black pepper. Gently mix and massage the ingredients with your hands to ensure the marinade coats the beef and onions evenly. For an even richer flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
Step 3
Heat a lightly oiled pan over medium heat. Add the marinated beef and onions. Stir-fry until the beef is cooked through and the onions are tender and translucent. Your delicious soy-braised beef is ready! Simple, isn’t it?
Step 4
Pro Tip: If you have grated pear or pear juice, adding 1-2 tablespoons to the marinade or during cooking will make the beef exceptionally tender and add a natural sweetness, further enhancing the overall flavor.
