Savory and Flavorful Galbi: Korean BBQ Short Ribs

If you’re a fan of Korean cuisine, you’ll love this classic Galbi recipe. Galbi, or Korean BBQ short ribs, is a flavorful and tender dish that’s perfect for grilling. The marinade, featuring a blend of sweet and savory ingredients, infuses the meat with rich flavors, making every bite irresistible. Let’s dive into how you can prepare this delightful dish at home.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds thin-cut, flanken-style bone-in beef short ribs (about 1/2-inch thick)
• 1/2 medium yellow onion
• 2 medium scallions
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1/2 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple in 100% juice (about 1/2 cup)
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons water, divided, plus more as needed
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup mirin
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Toasted white sesame seeds, for garnish

Serving Options

• Steamed rice
• Leafy vegetables, such as lettuce or perilla leaves

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Short Ribs

1. Rinse 2 pounds of thin-cut bone-in beef short ribs under cool running water, focusing around the bones.
2. Place the ribs in a large bowl and add enough cold water to cover them.
3. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 3 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

1. Peel and coarsely chop 1/2 medium yellow onion.
2. Cut the whites from 2 medium scallions into rough 2-inch pieces and place in a blender.
3. Thinly slice the dark and light green parts of the scallions, place in a small bowl, and refrigerate (this is for garnish).
4. Add 4 peeled garlic cloves, 1/2 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, 2 tablespoons water, and 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger to the blender. Blend until smooth and pourable. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of water.
5. Transfer 1 cup of the mixture to a large bowl and discard the remaining or save for another use. If the mixture doesn’t make 1 cup, add a little water to make it up to 1 cup.

Step 3: Make the Marinade Sauce

1. Add the remaining 1 cup water, 1 cup soy sauce, 1/3 cup mirin, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to the pineapple mixture.
2. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4: Marinate the Short Ribs

1. Take the short ribs out of the water and rinse them again under cold water.
2. Shake off the excess water and place the ribs in a large zip-top plastic bag or large baking dish.
3. Pour in the marinade and toss to ensure all the short ribs are coated and submerged.
4. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 12 hours and up to 24 hours.

Step 5: Grill the Short Ribs

1. When ready to grill, heat a grill pan or a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the short ribs from the marinade, shake off any excess, and place on a plate (discard the remaining marinade).
3. Add enough short ribs to the pan to sit in a single layer without touching.
4. Cook until well browned, cooked through, and charred around the edges, about 2 minutes per side.
5. Transfer to a clean plate and repeat cooking the remaining short ribs.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the short ribs rest for 2 to 3 minutes, then cut between each bone with kitchen shears.
2. Garnish with the reserved scallion greens and 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds.
3. Serve with steamed rice and an assortment of leafy vegetables, such as lettuce and perilla leaves.

Quick Tips

• Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the short ribs for at least 12 hours, but no more than 24 hours.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair the Galbi with steamed rice and fresh leafy vegetables to create a balanced meal.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 12-24 hours
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 12-24 hours 25 minutes
• Calories: 550 (approx.)
• Servings: 4

Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of this classic Korean dish, perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering with friends. Happy grilling!

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