Grilled Korean Short Ribs, or “Galbi,” are tender, juicy beef ribs marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. The grill brings out amazing flavors while giving them a beautiful char!
These ribs are perfect for sharing with friends at a summer BBQ. I could eat a mountain of them while playfully fighting for the last piece—who doesn’t love a little rib battle? 😂
Making them is super easy! Just marinate, grill, and enjoy. Trust me, you’ll want to add this recipe to your list of favorites! Perfect with rice or wrapped in lettuce for fun bites!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: Look for flanken cut short ribs, which are great for grilling. If you can’t find these, try using short ribs cut in a different style or even beef chuck, but the flavor and texture may vary.
Soy Sauce: This is important for the marinade’s salty and umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. Coconut aminos can work too, but they will add a slightly sweeter taste.
Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you’re looking for healthier options, maple syrup or honey can substitute. Just adjust the amount to maintain the sweetness level.
Grated Pear: This ingredient brings a sweet fruity note. You can substitute it with grated apple if Asian pear isn’t available. Apples will also add a lovely sweetness!
Sesame Oil: This gives a rich, nutty flavor. If you can’t find toasted sesame oil, try a light olive oil, but it won’t have the same depth. A little goes a long way with sesame oil.
How Do I Marinate the Ribs for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating the ribs is key for deep flavor. Start by mixing your marinade ingredients in a bowl. Make sure to whisk well to combine everything, especially the sugar.
- Use a resealable bag or a dish for marinating. This helps coat every piece evenly.
- Let the short ribs marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Right before grilling, remove the ribs and shake off excess marinade. This will help you achieve that nice char when grilling.
Remember, proper marination not only enhances taste but also makes the ribs tender, so don’t rush this step!
How to Make Grilled Korean Short Ribs (Galbi)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup grated pear (Asian pear or Bosc)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Short Ribs:
- 2 pounds beef short ribs, cut for grilling (flanken style)
Optional Serving:
- Lettuce leaves for wrapping
- Steamed rice for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time for the marinade, plus at least 4 hours to let the short ribs soak in all that flavor (overnight is best). Grilling them will take another 10-15 minutes. With some patience, you’ll have a fantastic meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, grated pear, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and black pepper. This mixture will make your mouth water with its sweet and savory aroma!
2. Coat the Ribs:
Take your beef short ribs and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, making sure every piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the fridge. Let them marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for the flavors to really soak in.
3. Get the Grill Ready:
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 covered in white ash for the ideal heat.
4. Grill the Short Ribs:
Take the marinated short ribs out of the fridge. Remove them from the marinade and shake off any excess (don’t forget, you’ll want to discard the leftover marinade). Place the ribs on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re beautifully charred and cooked to your liking.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes to keep them juicy. Then, slice the short ribs into pieces. Serve them garnished with extra chopped green onions and sesame seeds. If you’re feeling adventurous, offer lettuce leaves for wrapping up the ribs, and don’t forget some steamed rice on the side!
Enjoy your delightful Grilled Korean Short Ribs (Galbi)!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While beef short ribs are traditional, you can substitute with pork ribs or even chicken thighs. Just be aware that cooking times may vary; chicken will cook faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid dryness!
Can I Marinate the Ribs for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the ribs for up to 24 hours! Just be cautious if you’re using very thin ribs, as an extended marinating time may make them overly salty. Always taste your marinade for balance before pouring it over the meat!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Short Ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on a grill, or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
What Should I Serve With Grilled Korean Short Ribs?
These ribs pair wonderfully with steamed rice, kimchi, or a fresh cucumber salad. You can also use lettuce leaves to wrap the ribs for a fun, interactive meal!
