Grilled Korean Short Ribs are a tasty treat, bursting with flavor! These juicy ribs are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce that makes every bite unforgettable.
I love grilling these on a sunny day. The smell alone makes my mouth water. Serve them with rice and kimchi, and you’ve got a meal that’ll impress everyone around the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: Flanken-cut short ribs are perfect because they have nice meat-to-bone ratios that enhance flavor. If you can’t find them, try using regular short ribs or even beef chuck could work, but adjust cooking time as it may take longer to become tender.
Soy Sauce: This ingredient is crucial for umami flavor in the marinade. For a gluten-free option, use tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce. I also enjoy using low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
Brown Sugar & Honey: Both provide sweetness and help with caramelization. If you’re looking for substitutes, maple syrup can work in place of honey, and coconut sugar can replace brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a lovely kick. If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger is a quick substitute, though you’ll need less (about a teaspoon). You won’t get the same freshness but it’ll still do in a pinch!
How Do I Achieve the Best Marinade for Ribs?
The marinade is key to flavorful and tender short ribs. Combine all ingredients well and let them rest in the fridge. For best results, marinate the meat overnight as it allows flavors to deeply penetrate the ribs.
- Mix your marinade in a large bowl, using a whisk to ensure the sugar dissolves.
- Place the short ribs in a zip-top bag or a dish, coating them completely with the marinade.
- Seal tightly (if using a bag) and refrigerate. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful they’ll be!
How to Make Grilled Korean Short Ribs (Kalbi)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds beef short ribs, flanken-cut
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time plus at least 4 hours of marinating time, preferably overnight for the best flavor. Once you’re ready to grill, cooking will take about 8-10 minutes. So, plan for at least 4 hours and 20 minutes, which includes marinating and grilling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame seeds, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and everything is evenly combined. This sweet and savory marinade will give your ribs a fantastic flavor!
2. Marinate the Short Ribs:
Add the flanken-cut short ribs to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the ribs and marinade into a zip-top bag. Place it in the refrigerator and let the ribs marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they’ll be!
3. Prepare and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the short ribs from the marinade and allow any excess marinade to drip off. Place the ribs on the hot grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re nicely caramelized and cooked to your desired doneness. The sizzling sound is music to your ears!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the ribs are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter and sprinkle with the chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve the grilled short ribs hot, and consider pairing them with rice and leafy lettuce for wrapping. Enjoy your delicious Kalbi meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flanken-cut beef short ribs are traditional for kalbi, you can also use back ribs or even a chuck roast cut into thin strips. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose, so adjust accordingly to ensure tenderness.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Marinade?
If you prefer a less sweet marinade, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey by half without significantly impacting the flavor. Conversely, for a sweeter marinade, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of honey or brown sugar. Just taste it before marinating the ribs to find your perfect balance!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on a grill pan over medium heat, just be careful not to overcook them to maintain tenderness.
Can I Marinate the Ribs for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the ribs for up to 24 hours for even more flavor, but avoid going longer than that as the acid from the marinade may break down the meat too much, resulting in a mushy texture. Make sure to keep the marinating meat in the fridge!
