Galbi are delicious Korean grilled ribs that are sweet, savory, and full of flavor. The flanken cut is thin, making it perfect for quick grilling that everyone will love!
When the grill is hot and those ribs start sizzling, my heart does a happy dance! 😄 I like to enjoy them with rice and some fresh veggies. It’s a tasty feast that’s hard to beat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken Beef Ribs: These ribs are key for the recipe, offering rich flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find flanken ribs, short ribs or even beef chuck can work in a pinch, though it may change the grilling time and texture.
Soy Sauce: A staple in Korean cuisine, it adds depth of flavor. If you need a low-sodium option, choose low-sodium soy sauce. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative that tastes similar.
Sesame Oil: This brings a warm and nutty flavor. I recommend using toasted sesame oil for an extra kick. If unavailable, any light cooking oil can substitute, but the flavor won’t be the same.
Brown Sugar: It helps balance the savory soy sauce. You could swap it with honey or agave syrup, but remember that these sweeteners may caramelize faster on the grill.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the best for this recipe. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be used, but the flavor will be milder, so use about 1 teaspoon instead of 6-8 cloves.
How Do I Get the Best Flavors When Marinating the Ribs?
Marinating is essential for infusing flavors into the ribs. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Mix well: Ensure all marinade ingredients are well-combined before adding the ribs.
- Time it right: For the best results, marinate overnight. If you’re short on time, aim for at least 3 hours, but don’t rush it if possible.
- Seal tightly: Using a resealable bag helps the marinade coat every bit of the ribs. Squeeze out as much air as possible for better soaking.
Remember, the longer the ribs marinate, the richer the flavor. A little patience really pays off here!
How to Make Galbi (Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup garlic, minced (about 6-8 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice wine or mirin
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: black pepper to taste
For the Ribs:
- 2 lbs flanken beef ribs
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 3 hours for marinating. If you want the best flavor, marinating overnight is recommended. After marinating, you’ll need about 12 minutes for grilling and resting. Overall, plan for a delicious 3 hours and 15 minutes (or overnight) to enjoy your Galbi!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice wine (or mirin), and green onions. Make sure everything is well mixed and the sugar is dissolved. This will give your ribs a rich, flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Place the flanken ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, making sure they are well-coated on all sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. Pop it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. For even tastier ribs, leave it overnight!
3. Grill the Ribs:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Place the ribs on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side. You want them to be nicely charred and cooked to your desired doneness.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Once the ribs are done cooking, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Before serving, sprinkle with sesame seeds and additional green onions for a fresh touch. Serve your tasty Galbi warm, ideally with some steamed rice and pickled vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Beef Short Ribs Instead of Flanken Ribs?
Yes, you can use beef short ribs as a substitute for flanken ribs! Just keep in mind that they may require a longer cooking time to become tender, so adjust your grilling time to ensure they are cooked through.
How Long Should I Marinate the Ribs?
Marinating for at least 3 hours is recommended, but for best results, marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, giving you a more flavorful dish!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Galbi?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level in the Marinade?
Absolutely! If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers to the marinade. Just start with a small amount, taste, and adjust to your preference!
