Galbi is a delicious dish featuring tender flanken ribs marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s a great choice for grilling, making it perfect for barbecues!
These ribs are so tasty, you’ll want to make them again and again. Trust me, every time I grill them, my neighbors come sniffing around for a taste! 😄
I love serving galbi with some rice and veggies on the side. It’s an easy way to impress friends and family without spending all day in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken-style short ribs: These are essential for achieving that rich flavor. If you can’t find them, try using regular beef short ribs or even beef chuck. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Soy sauce: This gives the dish its salty umami kick. For a gluten-free option, use tamari sauce, which tastes just as good. I sometimes mix in a bit of liquid aminos for a different flavor profile.
Brown sugar: It adds sweetness and helps with caramelization on the grill. If you prefer a healthier option, try coconut sugar or honey instead. Just remember to adjust the quantity since honey is sweeter.
Sesame oil: This oil adds a wonderful nutty aroma. If you’re in a pinch, you can use vegetable oil, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor. I highly recommend keeping sesame oil in your pantry for authentic taste.
Rice vinegar: It balances out the flavors. If rice vinegar is not available, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work, but they may alter the taste slightly. A splash of lemon juice can be a good alternative, too!
How Do You Marinate for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is crucial for breaking down the meat and infusing it with flavor. To get the best results, follow these tips:
- Make sure the marinade is well mixed before adding the ribs.
- Cover the bowl tightly, so no air gets in. Air can hinder the marination process.
- Let the ribs marinate for a minimum of 4 hours, but overnight gives the best flavor.
- When ready to grill, let the excess marinade drip off to prevent flare-ups on the grill!
How to Make Galbi Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds flanken-style short ribs
For the Marinade:
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (plus more 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 prep time, and then you’ll need to marinate the ribs for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best for extra flavor. Once marinated, grilling will take about 10-15 minutes. So, it’s perfect for planning a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, water, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved and everything is combined.
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Add the flanken ribs to the marinade, making sure they’re fully submerged in the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the ribs marinate for at least 4 hours; overnight is ideal for the best flavor.
3. Grill the Ribs:
When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the ribs out of the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Grill the ribs for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re nicely charred and cooked to your liking.
4. Rest and Garnish:
Once the ribs are done grilling, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps to keep them juicy. Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a delicious finishing touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your mouthwatering Galbi hot, alongside steamed rice and any of your favorite Korean side dishes (banchan). Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Ribs for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flanken-style ribs are traditional for galbi, you can also use short ribs or even baby back ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the meat, so adjust your grilling time accordingly!
How Long Can I Marinate the Ribs?
You can marinate the ribs for up to 24 hours for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, a minimum of 4 hours is okay, but the longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will be. Just remember to keep them in the refrigerator!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat to warm through without overcooking. You can add a splash of water to create steam and keep them moist.
Can I Make a Vegan Version of Galbi?
Yes! For a vegan option, try using marinated grilled tempeh or seitan instead of ribs. Use the same marinade ingredients while substituting the protein, and adjust the grilling time based on the product used. They will deliver a similar rich flavor!
