Prepare Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons mirin (or sweet rice wine)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 pear (Asian pear preferred), grated
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Directions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, white sugar, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sugars dissolve.
- Add Liquids: Stir in the sesame oil, mirin, and rice vinegar, mixing thoroughly to combine.
- Incorporate Pear: Add the grated pear to the sauce mixture, blending well. The pear not only adds sweetness but also helps tenderize the meat.
- Final Touches: Stir in the ground black pepper and finely chopped green onions. If using, sprinkle sesame seeds into the sauce for added texture.
- Marinate: Pour the sauce over your choice of meat, thoroughly coating all pieces. Allow the meat to marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably several hours, before grilling.
Cook Notes
For best results, marinate the beef overnight to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
Variations
- Spicy Bulgogi Sauce: Add Korean chili paste (gochujang) or red pepper flakes to introduce a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Bulgogi: Use this sauce to marinate thick slices of mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Keto Version
Substitute the sugars with a keto-friendly sweetener and ensure the mirin is omitted or replaced with a sugar-free alternative.
Low-Carb Version
Use a low-carb sweetener instead of sugar and reduce the amount of mirin or substitute it with another low-carb option.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (assuming 10 servings per recipe):
- Calories: 70
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 880mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g (Net carbs: 9g)
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 1g
This homemade Bulgogi Sauce recipe not only enhances the flavors of your meats but also adds a touch of Korean tradition to your dining table. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, this sauce is sure to impress. Enjoy the delicious tastes of Korea in your own backyard!
