Bulgogi
AI-generated image
Korean

Bulgogi

Thinly sliced beef marinated in pear, soy, garlic, and sesame, then quickly sautéed until caramelized at the edges and tender in the center. Serve with rice, lettuce, and crisp garnishes for a classic Korean meal.

35 min 4 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Whisk the grated pear, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and sliced scallion whites in a bowl until the sugar dissolves and the marinade looks cohesive.
2
Add the sliced beef and toss thoroughly to coat every piece. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for a deeper flavor.
3
Heat a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over high heat until a drop of water evaporates immediately. Add half the neutral oil and arrange half the beef in a single layer, allowing excess marinade to drip back into the bowl.
4
Sauté the beef for 2 to 3 minutes, turning once, until browned at the edges and the thickest pieces reach 74°C. Transfer to a plate, then repeat with the remaining oil and beef.
Glossy caramelized bulgogi beef cooked through in the skillet. AI-generated image
5
Return all the beef to the skillet and toss with the scallion greens for 30 seconds, just until fragrant and glossy. Remove from the heat and rest for 2 minutes.
6
Serve the hot bulgogi over cooked short-grain rice and finish with the toasted sesame seeds. Offer lettuce leaves and kimchi alongside if desired.
Bulgogi served over rice with scallions and sesame seeds. AI-generated image

Why this recipe works

Pear adds gentle sweetness and tenderizing enzymes, while soy, garlic, sesame oil, and ginger create the savory, aromatic balance associated with classic bulgogi. A very hot pan gives the thin beef browned edges without overcooking it.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Refrigerate cooked bulgogi in a covered container within 2 hours and use within 3 days. Keep garnishes and lettuce separate.

How to reheat it

Reheat gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with 1 tablespoon of water until steaming hot throughout, about 3 to 5 minutes. Avoid prolonged heating, which can toughen the beef.

Nutrition / serving

691kcal
53.50 gprotein
56.09 gcarbs
27.14 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 22 Aug 2026 · updated 22 Aug 2026