When the grill begins to heat up and the smell of marinated beef starts to waft through the kitchen, there’s an unmistakable excitement that fills the air. These Korean Beef Short Ribs elevate any meal into a special occasion with just a few simple ingredients. I discovered this delightful recipe during a cozy family get-together, where laughter mingled with the sizzling sounds of the grill, creating a perfect backdrop for culinary discovery.
The sweet and savory marinade shines through, enhancing the natural richness of the meat while forming a sticky glaze that’s utterly irresistible. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners, but it also boasts a flavor profile so compelling that it will have your guests coming back for seconds—even thirds!
Ready to take your taste buds on a journey? Let’s fire up that grill and dive into these soul-satisfying short ribs that promise a slice of Korean BBQ bliss right at your dinner table!
Why you’ll love Korean Beef Short Ribs!
Irresistible flavor: The sweet and savory marinade caramelizes beautifully, creating a sticky glaze that elevates the beef’s natural richness.
Quick preparation: With an easy marinade that doesn’t skimp on taste, you can whip these up even on busy weeknights!
Perfect for gatherings: Impress your guests at BBQs and family get-togethers with this crowd-pleaser.
Versatile recipe: Feel free to swap ingredients, such as using regular pear instead of Asian pear, to customize your dish.
Mouthwatering textures: Enjoy tender, juicy meat with a satisfying char that will leave everyone craving more!
Korean Beef Short Ribs Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Asian Pear – Adds juiciness and sweetness to the marinade; substitute with regular pear or apple if unavailable.
• Onion – Provides depth of flavor; no substitutions necessary, but quartering makes pureeing easier.
• Garlic – Infuses a robust flavor; adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
• Ginger – Adds warm spiciness; make sure to peel before use.
• Soy Sauce – Acts as the salty umami base; essential for flavor, but a low-sodium version can lighten it up.
• Honey – Contributes sweetness to balance flavors; can substitute with sugar if honey isn’t on hand.
• Toasted Sesame Oil – Adds rich aroma and nuttiness; omit for a lighter taste, though it’s not recommended.
• Ground Black Pepper – Introduces heat and pungency; adjust based on your personal preference.
For the Beef
• Beef Short Ribs – The main protein; choose ¾-inch thick slices for optimal grilling; well-marbled for richer flavor is ideal.
How to Make Korean Beef Short Ribs
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Puree the Asian pear, onion, garlic, and ginger in a food processor. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp if you prefer a smoother marinade. This ensures a perfect blend of flavors!
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Mix in a medium bowl the strained puree with soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and ground black pepper. Whisk it together until well combined—this creates a savory-sweet marinade that’s just divine.
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Combine the marinade with your beef short ribs in a large Ziplock bag. Make sure to remove excess air and seal it well before refrigerating. Marinate for at least one hour, or preferably overnight, to let those flavors truly develop.
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Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated short ribs for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully charred and reach a medium-rare doneness. Keep an eye out for that tantalizing glaze!
Optional: Serve topped with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an extra flavor punch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Korean Beef Short Ribs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors without the last-minute rush! You can marinate the beef short ribs up to 24 hours in advance—just combine the marinade with the ribs in a large Ziplock bag, press out the air, and refrigerate. This way, the ribs soak up all those savory-sweet flavors! If you want to prepare even further ahead, you can freeze the marinated ribs for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before grilling. When you’re ready to cook, simply preheat your skillet and grill the ribs for 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re charred and deliciously sticky—just like a genuine Korean BBQ experience!
What to Serve with Korean Beef Short Ribs?
To craft a truly memorable meal, consider these delightful sides to complement the rich and sticky goodness of your short ribs.
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Steamed Rice: A classic choice, fluffy rice soaks up the sweet marinade, providing a blank canvas for the BBQ flavors.
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Korean Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side adds texture and a refreshing pop of flavor that balances the meat’s richness, making every bite more enjoyable.
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Pickled Vegetables: The sharpness of pickled radishes or cucumbers contrasts beautifully with the savory beef, enhancing the whole dining experience while introducing a beautiful burst of color.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, this summery side brings a cheerful element and creates a delightful partnership with the charred ribs.
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Sesame Steamed Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli drizzled with sesame oil and sprinkled with seeds introduces a fresh, earthy taste that rounds out the meal perfectly.
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Gochujang Macaroni Salad: A fun twist on a classic, this creamy dish adds a mild heat that echoes the Korean flavors while pleasing both kids and adults alike.
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Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing medley of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and provide a sweet contrast—and who doesn’t love dessert without the guilt?
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Korean Beer: Pair your meal with a chilled bottle of Korean lager, which perfectly complements the rich flavors while refreshing your senses with every sip.
How to Store and Freeze Korean Beef Short Ribs
Fridge: Store marinated Korean Beef Short Ribs in an airtight container for up to 2 days before grilling. Keeping them well-sealed helps maintain flavor and freshness.
Freezer: If you’ve prepared more than you can grill, freeze the marinated ribs in a Ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Just ensure to remove all excess air for optimal storage.
Thawing: For best results, thaw the frozen short ribs in the fridge overnight before cooking. This will preserve the texture and flavor of the meat.
Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat on the stovetop or grill over low heat until warmed through, ensuring a juicy bite without overcooking.
Korean Beef Short Ribs Variations
Customize your Korean Beef Short Ribs for a personal touch, enticing everyone around the table!
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Fruit Swap: Replace Asian pear with a regular pear or apple for a sweeter note without losing texture.
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Spice It Up: Add a tablespoon of gochujang for a spicy twist that brings heat to your sweet and savory marinade.
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Nutty Flavor: Try toasted peanut oil instead of sesame oil for a distinct nutty aroma and taste.
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Sweetness Level: Mix in brown sugar instead of honey for a darker, richer sweetness that pairs beautifully with the beef.
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Citrusy Brightness: Add zest of an orange or lemon to the marinade for a fresh citrus pop that balances the richness.
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Herbal Notes: Toss in some fresh cilantro or mint as a garnish after grilling for a refreshing herbal finish.
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Different Cut: Use flank steak if short ribs aren’t available; just adjust grilling times since it cooks faster.
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Veggie Load: Grill bell peppers or zucchini alongside the ribs to create a colorful, tasty side that elevates your meal.
Experimenting with flavors not only makes the dish your own but also invites culinary fun at the grill!
Expert Tips for Korean Beef Short Ribs
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Marinate Longer: Allow the beef short ribs to marinate overnight for deeper flavor. This patience pays off with fantastic taste!
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Strain the Marinade: Removing pulp from the marinade can prevent burning and create that beautiful glaze during grilling.
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Proper Heat: Make sure the skillet is preheated well before adding the ribs. A hot grill ensures a perfect char without overcooking the meat.
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Watch the Time: Grill for just 1-2 minutes on each side to achieve medium-rare perfection. Too long, and you risk losing that succulent tenderness.
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Experiment Freely: Feel free to swap in regular pear or try a hint of gochujang for added spice in your marinade. Customize your Korean Beef Short Ribs to match your taste!
Korean Beef Short Ribs Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose an Asian pear for the marinade?
Absolutely! Look for Asian pears that are firm to the touch with a light yellow or golden hue. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. Avoid any with dark spots or mushy areas, as these may be overly ripe.
How should I store marinated Korean Beef Short Ribs?
Store your marinated Korean Beef Short Ribs in an airtight container or a Ziplock bag in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep the marinade with them to prevent drying out and to maintain that delicious flavor.
Can I freeze Korean Beef Short Ribs, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze marinated Korean Beef Short Ribs! Simply place them in a sturdy Ziplock bag, ensuring to remove as much excess air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, which helps retain their juicy texture.
What should I do if the marinade burns during grilling?
If you notice that the marinade has burned while grilling, it might be due to the pulp from the puree. To avoid this, ensure you strain the marinade properly before marinating the ribs. If burning happens, try reducing the heat slightly or moving the ribs to a cooler part of the grill while they finish cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations for Korean Beef Short Ribs?
Yes! If you’re cooking for guests with dietary restrictions, remember that this recipe contains soy sauce, which is a common allergen. You can opt for a gluten-free soy sauce to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities. Additionally, if you have any pup friends around, avoid giving them the marinated meat since some ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to dogs.
What can I serve with Korean Beef Short Ribs?
Very! These delectable short ribs pair beautifully with steamed rice and side dishes like kimchi or pickled vegetables. Light salads or coleslaw are fantastic choices too, providing a crunchy contrast to the meaty richness. Plus, it creates a wonderful communal dining experience, just like true Korean BBQ!
Savory Korean Beef Short Ribs for Perfect BBQ Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Puree the Asian pear, onion, garlic, and ginger in a food processor. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove pulp if preferred.
- Mix the strained puree with soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and ground black pepper in a medium bowl.
- Combine the marinade with the beef short ribs in a Ziplock bag, remove excess air and seal. Marinate for at least one hour or overnight.
- Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and grill the marinated short ribs for 1-2 minutes on each side until charred and medium-rare.
- Optional: Serve topped with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.