Grilled Korean Short Ribs are packed with flavor and tenderness. Marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, these ribs are perfect for a barbecue or family meal!
Watching them sizzle on the grill is one of my favorite things. When they’re done, I can’t resist grabbing a few right off the plate—who needs etiquette when they’re this tasty? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: Cross-cut short ribs give the best flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find flanken-style, you can use regular short ribs, but adjust the cooking time as they may be thicker.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce for a less salty taste. Alternatively, tamari works well for a gluten-free option, while coconut aminos provide a sweeter flavor.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar is my go-to for that rich sweetness. You can swap it with honey or maple syrup, but remember to adjust the quantity as they are sweeter!
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, try olive oil, but the taste will be different. Toasted sesame oil gives an extra flavor punch if you have it!
How Do I Ensure Even Marinade Flavor?
Marinating is key to enhancing the ribs’ flavor. Always allow enough time for the marinade to penetrate the meat, ideally overnight. Mix the marinade well until the sugar is dissolved, as it helps blend flavors.
- Make sure the ribs are fully submerged in the marinade. If necessary, use a zip-top bag for even coating.
- Massage the marinade into the meat for extra flavor absorption.
- When you’re ready to grill, let the excess marinade drip off; this prevents flare-ups on the grill.
How to Make Grilled Korean Short Ribs (Galbi)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons rice wine or mirin
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds beef short ribs, cut in a flanken style (crosswise)
- 4 stalks green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of active preparation time, plus a minimum of 4 hours to marinate the ribs (overnight is best). You’ll also need about 15-20 minutes for grilling, depending on how you like your meat cooked. So, plan for a total of around 4 hours and 30 minutes including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, water, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice wine, sesame seeds, and black pepper. Use a whisk to stir everything together until the brown sugar is fully dissolved. This will be the flavorful marinade for your ribs!
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Add the beef short ribs to the marinade. Make sure each rib is well coated in the sauce. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the ribs and marinade to a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but letting them sit overnight will make the flavors even better.
3. Prep for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are hot and ashy before you start cooking. This high heat is perfect for achieving that delicious char on your short ribs!
4. Grill the Ribs:
Remove the marinated ribs from the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. You can discard the leftover marinade—it’s done its job! Place the ribs on the grill and cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side. Look for a nice char on the outside and cook them to your desired doneness.
5. Rest and Garnish:
Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep the juices inside the meat. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for an extra burst of flavor and color.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delectable Grilled Korean Short Ribs with lettuce wraps and your favorite side dishes like kimchi or rice. Enjoy every bite of this delicious, savory treat!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! If you can’t find beef short ribs, you can substitute with flank steak or ribs that are 1-2 inches thick. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the cut, so adjust the grilling time as needed for best results.
What Should I Do If My Ribs Are Tough?
If the ribs turn out tough, it’s likely they need more marinating time or slower cooking. For future attempts, try marinating for at least 8 hours or even up to 24 hours. When cooking, lower the heat and extend the grilling time for a more tender result, ensuring the meat is cooked properly without drying out.
How Can I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm on a grill or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to a week in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, give it a good whisk to re-combine the ingredients before adding your meat.
