Round Beef Bulgogi recipe

​For someone looking for a plate with a rich flavor and taste, adding a touch of sweetness, the Round Beef Bulgogi Recipe would be your recipe! This Korean-influenced favorite takes thinly sliced beef into an incredibly tender, caramelized main dish with a marinade made of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil and a dash of sugar or honey.
Bulgogi, meaning “fire meat,” is traditionally grilled or pan-seared to achieve a delicious balance of smoky, savory and slightly sweet flavors. By using round beef, this recipe makes it simple to make an economical but authentic dish that’s great for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family-style gatherings.
The Round Beef Bulgogi Recipe is a deliciously versatile dish you can enjoy with steamed rice, fresh lettuce wraps, or stir-fried vegetables that bring the mouthwatering taste of Korean food into your kitchen. It’s a fast, delicious and crowd-pleasing meal you’ll want to make again and again!

Table of Contents

What Makes Round Beef Bulgogi recipe Unique?

This recipe for beef bulgogi comes courtesy of Janet and is a Korean classic that features thinly grated slices of meat marinated in a sweet and savory soy sauce marinade. Traditionally prepared with well-marbled ribeye or other premium cuts, this version is made with ground beef, a more economical but no less delicious or textural substitution. And the marinade — a combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and a smidge of sugar or honey — infuses the beef with deep, umami-rich flavors.
Because the marinated beef is cooked over high heat, the caramelization adds a wonderful flavor to the natural sweetness of the ingredients. This balance of smoky, salty, and slightly sweet flavors is why Bulgogi is such a fantastic dish, loved by foodies worldwide. Round Beef Bulgogi — Served over steamed rice, in a wrap, or with fresh vegetables, it’s a meal that fills both the stomach and the soul.

The Key to Perfectly Marinated Round Beef Bulgogi

The secret to making an unforgettable Round Beef Bulgogi lies in the marinade. This flavorful mixture not only tenderizes the beef but also ensures every bite is packed with a rich depth of flavor. Here’s a closer look at what makes the marinade so special:

• Soy Sauce: Gives the salty, savory foundation that pairs well with the beef.
• Garlic and Ginger: Adding warming spice and a pungent aroma will take the dish to the next level.
• Sesame Oil: Adds nutty richness and deepens the overall flavor profile.
• Sugar or Honey: To balance the savory notes, adding a little sweetness, making the bulgogi signature
• Pear or Apple Juice (Optional): This ingredient is included in many traditional recipes for its tenderizing properties and natural sweetness.

Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for even better results) ensures the flavors fully penetrate the meat, making it juicy and flavorful with every bite.

Health Benefits of Round Beef Bulgogi recipe

While Bulgogi is known for its indulgent flavors, it also comes with several nutritional benefits when made with high-quality ingredients:

• Lean Protein: Round beef is a leaner cut that fits well into any diet plan. It is lower in fat while still getting a substantial protein meal.
• Nutrient-Packed Marinade: Other ingredients, such as garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that promote overall health.
• Spunching—Serve it on different sides (Vegetables/salads). Eating bulgogi with fresh vegetables or lettuce wraps helps make the dish more balanced as they bring in a lot of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Energy Boosting: The combination of protein and complex carbohydrates (when served with rice or noodles) provides sustained energy throughout the day.

Here’s a detailed table of health benefits for the Round Beef Bulgogi Recipe, breaking down the key ingredients and their contributions to health:

Round Beef Bulgogi recipe From OoohDelish!

Round Beef Bulgogi Recipe

Bulgogi, meaning “fire meat” in Korean, is a classic dish of thinly sliced, marinated beef that is grilled or stir-fried. This recipe uses round beef for a leaner version, retaining all the juicy, caramelized flavors of traditional bulgogi.

5 from 4 votes

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Marinate Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course beef

Cuisine Korean

Servings 4

Calories 290 kcal

Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Grill pan or skillet
• Tongs
• Serving platter

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb round beef thinly sliced, slightly frozen for easier slicing
• 1/4 cup soy sauce low-sodium preferred
• 2 tbsp sugar or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 1/4 cup grated Asian pear or apple, for sweetness
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds optional, for garnish
• 2 green onions chopped, for garnish

Instructions

 

Prepare the Meat:

• Thinly slice the round beef against the grain. Partially freezing the meat makes it easier to slice thin.

Make the Marinade:

• In a mixing bowl, add soy sauce, sugar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, grated Asian pear, and black pepper. Stir until sugar is dissolved.

Marinate the Beef:

• Place beef slices in marinate, coating, making sure all pieces are covered. Cover and refrigerate for deeper flavors for 30 minutes or longer, preferably overnight.

Cook the Beef:

• Place a grill pan or skillet over high heat. Oil the surface lightly to avoid sticking.
• In batches, cook the marinated beef, flat in the pan, for 1–2 minutes a side or until caramelized. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

Serve:

• Remove the cooked beef to a serving platter. Top with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
• Serve hot with steamed rice, shrimp, lettuce wraps, kimchi, or pickled vegetables.

Notes

Thin slices: The thinner the beef, the better it absorbs the marinade and cooks evenly.
High heat: Ensure your grill or skillet is very hot to achieve that perfect sear.

Marinate longer: If time allows, marinate overnight to enhance flavor.

Keyword Easy Korean Beef Recipe, Healthy Bulgogi Recipe, Lean Beef Bulgogi, Quick Bulgogi Marinade

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Round Beef Bulgogi recipe

Achieving restaurant-quality Bulgogi at home is easy with a few key techniques:

• Slice the Beef Very Thin: To get the best texture, thinly the beef against the grain. That keeps it tender and helps it cook quickly.
• Use High Heat to Quickly Sear: Searing the marinated beef over high heat gives it a quick sear and caramelization to enhance the flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If necessary (if you’re using a small pan, for example, or making a hefty batch of beef like this), cook the meat in batches so it doesn’t crowd the pan and steam rather than brown.
• Give the Marinade Time: Leave enough time for the marinade to soak into the meat. Overnight marination yields the best results.

By following these tips, you can replicate the authentic flavors and textures of Korean Bulgogi right in your kitchen.

Serving Ideas for Round Beef Bulgogi

One of the best aspects of the Round Beef Bulgogi Recipe is its versatility. Here are some popular ways to enjoy this flavorful dish:

• With Rice: Serve the Bulgogi over steamed white or brown rice for an old-school combo that soaks up the rich marinade flavors.
• Lettuce Wraps: Wrap the Bulgogi with crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh contrast.
• With Noodles: Stir-fry the Bulgogi with noodles for a satisfying one-bowl dish.
• As a Topping, You can use Bulgogi in salads, tacos, or even  pizza for a traditional spin on this dish.

Conclusion: A Taste of Korea in Every Bite

Round Beef Bulgogi Recipe: A Celebration of Korean Cuisine. Using one of the cheapest cuts of beef keeps it accessible, blooming in a no-fuss marinade that elevates it to restaurant quality.

Bulgogi is also a flexible recipe that works for any occasion, whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired dishes or just looking to experiment. Pair it with your favorite sides, experiment with creative variations, and enjoy a flavorful and nourishing meal. The vibrant flavors and satisfying textures of Round Beef Bulgogi will have you coming back for seconds every time.

FAQs: Round Beef Bulgogi recipe

Share Your Twist!

We’d love to hear your version of the Round Beef Bulgogi recipe ! What special ingredients or techniques do you use to make it uniquely yours? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to create even more delicious meals!

References

Beef Bulgogi Recipe