Elevate your next barbecue or weeknight dinner with this irresistible Kalbi Beef Marinade, a flavorful blend that transforms ordinary cuts of beef into tender, juicy perfection. Inspired by traditional Korean BBQ, this marinade combines the umami of soy sauce with the sweetness of brown sugar and the natural tenderizing power of grated Asian pear. Aromatic garlic, nutty sesame oil, and the subtle tang of rice vinegar deepen the flavor profile, while optional gochujang adds a hint of spice for those who enjoy a kick. Whether marinating short ribs, steak, or thinly sliced beef, this versatile recipe requires just 15 minutes of prep but delivers bold, mouthwatering results when grilled, broiled, or pan-seared. Perfect for gatherings or meal prep, this recipe ensures every bite is bursting with rich, savory-sweet notes. Embrace this authentic marinade and bring the essence of Korean cooking to your table!
In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Grate the Asian pear (or substitute with a Bosc pear), and add it to the bowl.
Add the minced garlic, chopped green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, toasted sesame seeds, and black pepper to the mixture.
If you'd like a bit of heat, stir in the gochujang at this stage.
Mix the marinade thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Place your short ribs or beef slices into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
Before cooking, remove the meat from the marinade and discard any excess liquid. Grill, broil, or pan-sear the beef to your desired level of doneness.
Calories |
1250 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 33.5 g | 43% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.7 g | 24% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 12.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 9704 mg | 422% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 221.2 g | 80% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.9 g | 75% | |
| Total Sugars | 169.8 g | ||
| Protein | 34.3 g | 69% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 611 mg | 47% | |
| Iron | 12.5 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 2568 mg | 55% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.