Korean BBQ Recipe | Grilled Marinated Beef Short Ribs (Galbi) with Sides
Korean BBQ: Grilled Marinated Beef Short Ribs (Galbi) Recipe
Due to the significant Korean population, dishes like marinated beef short ribs (galbi) grilled at the table are local favorites, offering a flavorful and interactive dining experience.
Korean BBQ, especially galbi, features marinated beef short ribs that are grilled at the table. This interactive and communal meal allows everyone to enjoy sizzling meat, savory sides, and fresh dipping sauces. It’s a perfect way to enjoy Korean cuisine with family and friends.

Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Galbi Marinade:
- 1 ½ lbs beef short ribs (flanken cut)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp rice wine (or mirin)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste, optional for a spicy kick)
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp pepper
For the Sides (Optional):
- Kimchi (Korean fermented vegetables)
- Steamed rice
- Sautéed vegetables (like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms)
For Dipping Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- Sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef Short Ribs
- Prepare the Ribs: If the short ribs are not pre-cut, ask your butcher to cut them into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick) across the bone, or buy flanken-cut ribs.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice wine, garlic, ginger, gochujang, sesame seeds, and green onions. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Marinate the Ribs: Place the ribs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the meat. Seal or cover, and marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to soak in.
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
- Grill at the Table: Set up a Korean BBQ grill or a regular grill (you can use a griddle or cast-iron skillet if grilling indoors). Ensure the grill is preheated to a medium-high heat.
- Grill the Meat: Place the marinated short ribs on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness, until they are caramelized and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Keep the Heat Even: Adjust the grill to avoid burning. You can brush extra marinade onto the meat during grilling for more flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Sides
- Kimchi: Serve kimchi (fermented cabbage or vegetables) as a tangy and spicy accompaniment to balance the richness of the galbi.
- Steamed Rice: Cook steamed white rice or sticky rice to serve alongside the grilled meat.
- Sautéed Vegetables: Optionally, sauté some spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a simple side dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar. Stir until well combined.
- Garnish: Top the dipping sauce with sliced green onions.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Grilled Galbi: Serve the grilled short ribs hot off the grill with steamed rice, kimchi, and sautéed vegetables.
- Dipping Sauce: Dip each piece of meat into the soy-based dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- Interactive Dining: Korean BBQ is traditionally an interactive meal, so let everyone enjoy grilling their own meat at the table!
Serving Suggestions
🍚 Wrap the grilled meat in a lettuce leaf with a small scoop of rice and some kimchi for a delicious Korean BBQ wrap.
🥢 Pair with cold drinks like Korean soju or a refreshing iced tea.
🌶 Spicy Upgrade: Add extra gochujang to the dipping sauce or serve with spicy Korean chili paste for more heat.
Enjoy your Korean BBQ galbi—a savory, sizzling experience that brings Korean culinary tradition right to your table! 🍖🔥