Bulgogi (Korean Marinated Beef)

• 1.5 lbs beef ribeye or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 3 tbsp sugar (or brown sugar)
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 Asian pear, grated (optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and grated Asian pear (or kiwi) which helps tenderize the meat.

2. 2

   Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade. Toss well to coat every slice. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for best flavor.

3. 3

   Heat a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over high heat until smoking hot.

4. 4

   Cook the beef in single layers, avoiding overcrowding. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and caramelized at the edges.

5. 5

   In the last minute of cooking, you can add sliced onions and carrots to the pan to cook in the beef juices if desired.

6. 6

   Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

7. 7

   Serve immediately with lettuce leaves for wrapping, steamed rice, and kimchi.