These Grilled Korean Short Ribs are packed with flavor and so juicy! Marinated in a tasty sauce, they are BBQ perfection. Plus, the sweet and savory blend makes everyone smile at the table!
Just a heads up, they go fast! When I make them, I always double the batch because they disappear before you know it. Perfect for a sunny day or a backyard BBQ with friends! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: Flanken cut short ribs are perfect for grilling. They’re flavorful and tender. If you can’t find short ribs, try using flank steak or beef chuck, but note that cooking times may vary.
Soy Sauce: This is the backbone of the marinade. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can swap in tamari sauce. Using low-sodium soy sauce can help control the saltiness.
Brown Sugar: It gives the marinade a rich sweetness. If you want a healthier option, try coconut sugar or even honey. Just remember to adjust the quantity as needed since honey is sweeter.
Sesame Oil: This adds a wonderful nuttiness. If you’re out, you can use olive oil, but you’ll miss that unique sesame flavor. I always keep sesame oil handy for that extra kick!
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best! They both enhance the flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder and ground ginger, but fresh ones are unbeatable!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Grilled Short Ribs?
Grilling short ribs can be tricky, but with these tips, you can ensure they turn out just right. Start with marinating them for an adequate time—4 hours is good, but overnight maximizes flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for optimal searing. This helps create a delicious outer crust.
- After removing ribs from the marinade, let the excess drip off; this prevents flare-ups while grilling.
- Grill the ribs for 4-5 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
- Baste them with the reserved marinade once they’re on the grill. This keeps them moist and flavorful.
- After grilling, allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes. This lets the juices redistribute for 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
- 1/4 cup minced green onions (plus more for garnish)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds beef short ribs (flanken cut)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours for marinating (or overnight if you can wait). Grill time is around 10-15 minutes. So, plan for about half a day to really let those flavors get delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced green onions, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together until the sugar has dissolved. This will create a tasty marinade for your ribs.
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Add the beef short ribs to the bowl with the marinade, making sure each rib is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a resealable plastic bag. Place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but if you can, overnight is best for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the marinated ribs out of the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. Make sure to save that marinade for basting later!
4. Grill the Ribs:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the short ribs on the grill, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that beautiful caramelization and for them to reach your desired doneness.
5. Baste While Grilling:
While you’re grilling, don’t forget to baste the ribs with the reserved marinade a couple of times. This packs in extra flavor, making them even more delicious.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, take the ribs off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. If needed, slice the ribs into individual portions. Transfer them to a serving platter and garnish with additional chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your grilled short ribs with cool lettuce leaves for wrapping, alongside your favorite side dishes like rice or kimchi. Enjoy your tasty meal with friends and family!
Can I Use Another Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
Yes! While flanken cut short ribs are ideal for grilling, you can substitute with other cuts like ribeye or sirloin. Just be aware that cooking times may vary based on thickness, so use a meat thermometer to ensure your beef is cooked to your desired doneness.
How Long Can I Marinate the Short Ribs?
You can marinate the short ribs for up to 24 hours for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, marinating for at least 4 hours will still yield delicious results. Just remember, the longer they sit in the marinade, the more flavorful they will become!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Short Ribs?
Store any leftover grilled short ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at a low temperature to retain moisture, or use the microwave. Baste with a little extra sauce to keep them juicy!
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just remember to give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may settle. This saves you time on busy cooking days!
