Korean BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
Introduction
Korean BBQ short ribs, or “galbi,” are a deliciously savory and sweet grilled dish perfect for any barbecue. These tender ribs are marinated in a flavorful sauce and cooked until beautifully caramelized. It’s a simple recipe that brings authentic Korean flavors to your home grill.

Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef short ribs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, sugar, and sesame oil to create the marinade. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.
- Step 2: Place the short ribs in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the ribs from the marinade and let excess drip off.
- Step 4: Grill the ribs for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are nicely caramelized and cooked through. Watch closely to prevent burning due to the sugar content.
- Step 5: Remove ribs from the grill and let rest a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, add sliced green onions or grated pear to the marinade.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in a teaspoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade.
- Cut ribs across the bone to create flanken-style short ribs, which grill quickly and absorb marinade better.
Storage
Store leftover cooked short ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to keep them tender. Avoid microwaving directly to prevent drying out.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use ribeye or skirt steak as alternatives, but the traditional flavor and texture of galbi comes from short ribs.
How long should I marinate the ribs?
Marinating for at least 4 hours is recommended, but overnight gives the best flavor and tenderness.
PrintKorean BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
This Korean BBQ Short Ribs recipe features tender and flavorful beef short ribs marinated in a savory mixture of soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil, then grilled to perfection to achieve a delicious caramelized exterior. Ideal for a flavorful and satisfying Korean-inspired meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 2 pounds beef short ribs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, sugar, sesame oil, and optional black pepper and grated ginger. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Marinate the ribs: Place the beef short ribs into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, ensuring every piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate overnight: Allow the ribs to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to fully absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C), ensuring the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the short ribs: Remove ribs from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place them on the hot grill and cook for 3-5 minutes per side or until the ribs are nicely caramelized and cooked through to your desired doneness.
- Rest and serve: Once grilled, let the short ribs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute. Serve hot with your choice of sides like steamed rice and kimchi.
Notes
- Marinating the ribs overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- Do not overcook the ribs to maintain juiciness.
- Use a grill pan or stovetop grill if an outdoor grill is not available.
- Adjust sugar quantity to your preference for sweetness.
- Ginger and black pepper add extra depth but are optional.
Keywords: Korean BBQ, Short Ribs, Grilled Beef, Korean Cuisine, BBQ Ribs

