Grilled Korean short ribs are a tasty treat! They’re marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, giving them a wonderful flavor that sizzles on the grill.
These ribs are so good, they might just make you dance a little while cooking! 🕺 I love serving them with rice and veggies for a fun meal that’s perfect for sharing with friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: Flanken-style short ribs are ideal as they cook quickly and have great flavor. If unavailable, you can use regular beef short ribs, but they may require longer cooking times.
Soy Sauce: This is essential for saltiness and depth. For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. I often swap in low-sodium soy sauce to cut back on sodium without losing flavor.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. You can replace it with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile if you’re looking for a natural alternative.
Sesame Oil: Look for toasted sesame oil for a rich flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use canola or vegetable oil, but you’ll miss that distinct nutty aroma.
Ginger & Garlic: Fresh is best for both. If you’re in a pinch, you can use powdered versions, but fresh ingredients really enhance the taste. I think more garlic is always a good idea!
How Do I Make Sure My Ribs Are Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling short ribs can be tricky since you want them to be juicy and flavorful without burning. Here’s how to ensure great results:
- Always let the meat marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to get nice sear marks. A hot grill helps lock in juices.
- When grilling, turn the ribs only once for a nice char, about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness.
- If they start to flare up, move them to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking without burning.
Remember, letting them rest for a few minutes after grilling will help keep them juicy. Enjoy each bite!
How to Make Grilled Korean Short Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds beef short ribs, flanken-style (cut across the bones)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time for the marinade and ribs, plus a minimum of 2 hours to marinate (or overnight for the best taste). Grill time will be around 10-12 minutes. All together, plan for at least 2 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy these delicious short ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until the sugar is mostly dissolved. This tasty blend will be your marinade to infuse flavor into the short ribs.
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Add the flanken-style short ribs to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the ribs marinate for at least 2 hours. If you can, marinate them overnight for a deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, take the marinated ribs out of the fridge. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, spread the coals out evenly to ensure consistent heat.
4. Grill the Ribs:
Remove the ribs from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Make sure to discard the leftover marinade to avoid any contamination. Place the ribs on the hot grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for a nice char and cook them to your preferred doneness. Don’t be afraid to check on them; we want these to be perfectly grilled!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled to perfection, transfer the ribs to a serving plate. Top them off with the finely chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a delightful garnish. Serve the short ribs hot, and if you like, offer some lettuce leaves for wrapping along with your favorite Korean side dishes (banchan). Enjoy every bite of these delicious grilled short ribs!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flanken-style short ribs are traditional, you can also use boneless short ribs, ribeye, or even skirt steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and cut you choose.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can mix the marinade up to a week in advance and store it in the fridge. This can enhance the flavors even further! Just give it a good stir before using, as some ingredients may settle at the bottom.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled short ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but be cautious to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Korean Short Ribs?
These short ribs pair well with steamed rice, kimchi, or pickled vegetables. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or grilled corn for a delightful meal!
