Galbi, or Korean grilled flanken ribs, are marinated beef ribs that are super tender and full of flavor. The marinade usually includes soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic—yum!
When you grill these ribs, they get a wonderful smoky taste that’s hard to resist. I love serving them with rice and a side of veggies. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken beef ribs: These ribs are cut across the bone for unique flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find flanken ribs, you can use short ribs but may need to adjust cooking time to ensure they are tender.
Soy sauce: A critical ingredient for umami flavor. If you need a lower sodium option, try low-sodium soy sauce. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative too.
Brown sugar: This adds sweetness and depth. You can substitute with coconut sugar or even maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Honey: Acts as both sweetener and tenderizer. You can use agave syrup or even molasses if you’re looking for a richer flavor.
Sesame oil: This oil gives a lovely nutty taste. If you’re out, substitute with olive oil, but it won’t have the same flavor. Toasted sesame oil is ideal if you want an extra punch.
Garlic and ginger: Fresh is best for max flavor. Use garlic powder or ground ginger in a pinch, but fresh provides a much brighter flavor.
How Do You Grill Flanken Ribs to Perfection?
Grilling flanken ribs requires patience to achieve that beautiful char without overcooking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the ribs on.
- Remove excess marinade before grilling to prevent flare-ups but keep enough for moisture.
- Grill the ribs for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look out for caramelization; that’s your golden sign they’re cooking well!
- Let the ribs rest after grilling to keep them juicy. I usually cover them loosely with foil for a few minutes.
These techniques help in getting that perfect balance of char and juicy meat. Enjoy the grilling process!
How to Make Galbi (Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 lbs flanken beef ribs (short ribs cut across the bone)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of active preparation time plus at least 4 hours for marinating the ribs. For the best flavor, try marinating overnight! Grilling the ribs will take an additional 8-10 minutes. So overall, plan for at least 4 hours and 20 minutes (including marinating) to get delicious Galbi on your table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and chopped green onions. Use a whisk to mix everything together until the brown sugar is dissolved and the marinade is blended nicely.
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Next, place the flanken ribs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, making sure they are well coated. If using a zip bag, seal it tightly; if using a dish, cover it. Pop it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better to let those flavors soak in!
3. Grill the Ribs:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the ribs out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Remember to discard the leftover marinade to avoid any risk of contamination. Grill the ribs for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to be caramelized and cooked to your taste, so keep an eye on them to ensure they stay juicy!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Finally, serve them hot, garnished with extra chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a beautiful touch. Enjoy your delicious Galbi!
Can I Use Another Cut of Beef Instead of Flanken Ribs?
Absolutely! If flanken ribs are hard to find, you can use short ribs or even beef chuck steaks cut into similar sizes. Just remember that cooking times might slightly vary depending on the thickness of the meat.
How to Adjust the Sweetness of the Marinade?
If you prefer a less sweet marinade, feel free to reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey. You can also add a touch of vinegar or lime juice to balance the sweetness without losing flavor!
Can I Marinate the Ribs for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the ribs for up to 24 hours! Just keep in mind that marinating too long can make the meat overly salty, so make sure to taste your marinade before pouring it over the meat if you’re extending the time.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them gently on a grill or in the oven to maintain their juicy flavor. Just avoid using the microwave, as this can dry them out!
