Hey hey! Gembira here! Lately I’ve been thinking about dishes that are sweet, savory, and absolutely packed with flavor, and bulgogi definitely fits the bill!
This Korean favorite has been around for over a thousand years! Back in the Goguryeo era, it was known as maekjeok and grilled on skewers over open flames. The name “bulgogi,” meaning “fire meat,” came much later, but the idea of marinated beef grilled to perfection has stayed strong ever since!
Bulgogi is made with thin slices of beef marinated in soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and pear or apple for that natural sweetness. Once the meat soaks up all those bold flavors, it’s grilled or pan-cooked until tender, juicy, and just a little smoky!
You’ll often see it served with rice, wrapped in lettuce with a bit of ssamjang, or topped with green onions and sesame seeds. And of course, a side of kimchi is never far away to round out the meal.
What I love most about bulgogi is how it balances everything! Sweet and salty, soft and charred, comforting but still exciting. It’s such an easy way to enjoy deep Korean flavors with hardly any fuss!
So, have you ever tried bulgogi before? If not, I really recommend giving it a go! One bite and you’ll see why it’s loved all over the world!
Best regards, Gembira
Here to make your soul happy!