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Korean Bulgogi Marinade

Delicious Korean Bulgogi Marinade for Any Protein Adventure

This Korean Bulgogi Marinade enhances the flavor of any protein with a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and smoky notes, elevating your meals effortlessly.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: APPETIZERS
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 50
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1/2 cup Soy Sauce Opt for low-sodium if desired.
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar Light or dark can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Apple cider vinegar works as a great substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil Canola oil can be used for a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds Omit if not available.
  • 1 tablespoon Gochujang (optional) Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 medium Asian Pear (peeled and finely grated) Regular pear or apple can be used.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion (peeled and finely grated) Shallots are a suitable substitute.
  • 2 stalks Green Onions (finely chopped) Regular onions can be used if green onions aren't available.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (finely chopped or grated) Minced or dehydrated garlic can work as alternatives.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (finely chopped or grated) Ground ginger can be a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt To taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper To taste.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • jar with lid

Method
 

How to Make Korean Bulgogi Marinade
  1. In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sesame seeds until well blended.
  2. Stir in the gochujang (if using), grated Asian pear, grated yellow onion, chopped green onions, garlic, and fresh ginger until thoroughly combined.
  3. Adjust the flavor by adding kosher salt and ground black pepper.
  4. Pour the marinade over your choice of beef, chicken, pork, or vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate.
  5. Grill the marinated items over high heat until cooked to your preference.
  6. Top with extra chopped green onions for an added fresh touch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 50kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSodium: 800mgSugar: 8g

Notes

Marination time varies by protein; beef loves a longer soak (2 hours or more), while chicken and veggies thrive in just 30 minutes. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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