A Korean-inspired rice dish topped with glossy, sweet-and-savory marinated beef.
Korean Bulgogi Rice features thinly sliced beef coated in a flavorful marinade of soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger and freshly grated pear. The pear adds natural sweetness to the marinade, while the combination of soy sauce and sesame oil creates a rich, savory flavor.
The beef is quickly stir-fried over high heat until tender and glossy, then served over fluffy basmati rice. Sesame seeds and fresh spring onions provide a finishing touch, while cucumber and traditional Korean accompaniments bring freshness and balance to this satisfying meal.
Ingredients
750 g basmati rice (4 cups), soaked for 20 minutes
800 g beef, thinly sliced
2 tbsp oil
½ cup soy sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp sesame oil
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tbsp ginger, finely chopped or grated
1 pear, grated
½ tsp black pepper
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Spring onions, chopped, for garnish
Cucumber, for serving
Method
Prepare the Bulgogi Marinade
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, chopped garlic, ginger, grated pear and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly combined.Marinate the Beef
Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade and mix well, ensuring every piece is coated. Cover and leave to marinate for 30 minutes so the beef absorbs the sweet and savory flavors.Wash and Cook the Rice
Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it for 20 minutes. Drain the rice and cook until fluffy and tender. Keep it covered and warm while preparing the beef.Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat the oil in a large frying pan or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 6–8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the meat is thoroughly cooked and coated in a glossy sauce.Arrange the Rice and Beef
Spread the cooked rice on a serving platter or divide it among individual bowls. Arrange the hot bulgogi beef over the rice, allowing the flavorful sauce to coat the beef and lightly season the rice beneath it.Garnish and Finish
Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped spring onions over the beef. Serve immediately with fresh cucumber slices and your preferred accompaniments.
Serve
Serve Korean Bulgogi Rice with kimchi, cucumber salad, steamed vegetables and a fried egg. The crisp vegetables and tangy kimchi complement the sweet-savory beef, while the egg adds extra richness to the meal.