Galbi are tasty Korean grilled ribs that are sweet, savory, and oh-so-delicious! Made from flanken-cut beef short ribs, they soak up a yummy marinade of soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar.
Grilling these ribs fills the air with an amazing smell that makes everyone gather around. I love serving them with rice and some veggies for a complete meal that feels like a festive feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flanken-style beef short ribs: These ribs have a nice balance of meat and fat, which gives them a great flavor when grilled. If you can’t find flanken ribs, you can use regular short ribs or even beef chuck steak, though the cooking time may vary.
Soy sauce: This is key for both flavor and color. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. I enjoy using low-sodium soy sauce to keep things healthier while still getting that umami taste.
Brown sugar: It adds sweetness and helps caramelize the ribs. If you are looking to reduce sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup instead. Just remember that honey is sweeter, so use a little less!
Rice wine (mirin): This sweet rice wine enhances the marinade’s flavor. If you can’t find mirin, you can replace it with a mix of sake and a bit of sugar, or use a small amount of white wine vinegar combined with sugar.
Garlic and ginger: Fresh is best! These add a bright flavor. I always recommend using fresh ingredients, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use powder—just adjust the amounts since they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks and Flavor?
Grilling Galbi so that it has the perfect char takes a few key steps. Follow these tips for great results:
- Preheat your grill: Getting it nice and hot ensures the ribs sear properly and develop those beautiful grill lines.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Give each rib space. This helps heat circulate better and prevents steaming.
- Baste wisely: Use the reserved marinade while grilling for extra flavor, but don’t apply it in the last minute to avoid flare-ups. Brush it on about halfway through cooking.
- Rest before serving: Letting the cooked ribs rest for a few minutes allows juices to redistribute, keeping them tender and juicy.
How to Make Galbi Korean Grilled Flanken Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice wine (mirin)
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1 tbsp of chili paste (for a spicy kick)
For the Ribs:
- 2 lbs flanken-style beef short ribs
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time plus at least 4 hours (or preferably overnight) for marinating. After marinating, grilling will take about 10 minutes. So, make sure to plan ahead and enjoy those delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice wine, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and chili paste (if you want some spice). Stir everything together until the sugar completely dissolves. This mixture will be packed with flavor!
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Add the flanken ribs to your marinade. Make sure each piece is well-coated in that delicious sauce. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. For the best flavor, let them marinate overnight if you can.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are hot and have a grey ashed-over appearance. It’s the perfect time to start grilling!
4. Grill the Ribs:
Take the ribs out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Remember to save the leftover marinade for basting. Place the ribs on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Brush them with the reserved marinade while they grill. You want them nice, charred, and cooked to your preferred doneness (medium-rare is recommended!).
5. Rest and Garnish:
Once they’re grilled to perfection, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle in the meat. After resting, sprinkle the grilled Galbi with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a lovely finish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your flavorful Galbi with steamed rice and kimchi for a traditional Korean meal. Enjoy the delicious smoky flavors and the wonderful combination of tastes!
Can I Use Another Type of Meat for This Recipe?
Yes! While flanken-style beef short ribs are traditional, you can substitute them with other cuts like beef ribeye or even pork ribs. Just remember that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and type of meat you choose, so keep an eye on them while grilling.
How Long Should I Marinate the Ribs?
For the best flavor, marinate your ribs for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better! This allows the marinade to penetrate the meat thoroughly and enhances the flavor. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can make a difference, but aim for longer if you can!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Ribs
Store any leftover grilled ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a grill or in an oven at a low temperature until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook them, as they might dry out.
Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Marinade?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can simply omit the chili paste. Alternatively, add more for extra heat, or try using a milder chili sauce if you want just a bit of spice without overwhelming the dish. Taste the marinade before adding the ribs to find your perfect balance!
