This Easy Korean Kalbi BBQ Short Ribs are juicy, tender, and packed with sweet and savory flavors. Marinated in a special mix, they grill up beautifully and are an absolute crowd-pleaser!
Honestly, these ribs make me feel like a BBQ master, even if I’m just flipping them on my grill at home. They’re an awesome treat for any get-together or family meal! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: This cut offers rich flavor and tenderness, perfect for grilling. If you can’t find short ribs, consider using flank steak or chuck ribs. They may need different cooking times, but they can work in a pinch!
Soy Sauce: A key element for the marinade’s umami flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, use reduced-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free choice. coconut aminos are another great alternative for a milder taste.
Brown Sugar: This helps balance the salty soy sauce with sweetness. For a refined option, you can use honey or maple syrup. Just remember that they’re sweeter, so you might want to reduce the quantity slightly.
Sesame Oil: It adds a nutty depth to the dish. If you need a substitute, light olive oil or vegetable oil works in a pinch, but they won’t impart that unique flavor. Toasted sesame oil is best for finishing the dish, if you have it!
Green Onions: They enhance freshness in both flavor and color. If you’re out, chives or shallots can provide a similar touch. Sometimes I even toss in a bit of red onion for a sharp bite!
How Do I Ensure Tender and Flavorful Ribs?
To make your kalbi short ribs perfectly tender and packed with flavor, marinating is crucial. The longer you allow the beef to soak in the marinade, the more flavor it will absorb. Aim for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight for the best results.
- Mix your marinade ingredients well to dissolve the sugar and ensure even flavor.
- Coat the ribs thoroughly, making sure they are well submerged in the marinade.
- Keep them in the refrigerator to stay safe from bacteria.
When you’re done marinating, let the excess drip off before grilling to prevent flare-ups. Monitor the cooking closely; grilling for just 3-4 minutes per side usually gives that lovely char while keeping the meat juicy!
Easy Korean Kalbi BBQ Short Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus additional for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon rice wine (optional)
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds beef short ribs, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of active prep time and at least 4 hours to marinate the ribs, preferably overnight. Once marinated, grilling takes about 8 minutes. So, plan for a total of at least 4 hours and 15 minutes, allowing for a delicious wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, chopped green onions, and rice wine if you’re using it. Mix everything together really well to ensure the sugar dissolves and the flavors blend nicely.
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Now, add the beef short ribs to the marinade, making sure every piece is coated thoroughly. This is where the ribs soak up all that delicious flavor! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but if you can wait until the next day, do it! Overnight marinating is the best for flavor.
3. Preheat and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Take the marinated short ribs out of the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. It’s time to grill! Place the ribs on the grill and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want to see nice grill marks and get them cooked to your liking.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the ribs are done cooking, transfer them to a serving platter. You can garnish them with extra chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve these tasty short ribs warm, alongside some rice and your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your homemade Korean Kalbi BBQ Short Ribs!
Can I Use Another Type of Meat Instead of Short Ribs?
Absolutely! You can use flank steak or skirt steak as alternatives; however, adjust the grilling time as they may cook faster than short ribs. Just marinate in the same way and grill for about 2-3 minutes per side until they reach your desired doneness.
How Long Can I Marinate the Ribs?
You can marinate the short ribs for up to 24 hours for the best flavor. If you plan to marinate them longer than overnight, consider reducing the soy sauce slightly to prevent the meat from becoming too salty.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ribs on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm. Alternatively, gently reheat on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a few days in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready, simply add the short ribs and let them marinate as directed. This saves time on the day of cooking!
