LA Galbi, the iconic Korean BBQ short rib, is a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes taste buds with its tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and intensely savory, subtly sweet flavor. This beloved dish, a staple at Korean BBQ restaurants worldwide, is surprisingly accessible to home cooks. The key lies in a well-balanced marinade that infuses the meat with umami depth, a perfect harmony of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sweetness. Forget tough, chewy short ribs; this recipe guarantees unbelievably tender results that will impress even the most discerning palates.
The rich, caramelized exterior of perfectly grilled LA Galbi is a sight to behold, promising an explosion of flavor with every bite. From prepping the marinade to achieving that perfect char, we'll guide you through each step of the process, ensuring your home-cooked LA Galbi rivals the best restaurants. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure and create your own unforgettable Korean BBQ experience? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step recipe below.
Tools Needed
- Blender
- Mixing bowl
- Frying pan
- Pot
- Ladle
- Scissors
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Marinade
- Blend pear, apple, kiwi, onion, and a little water in a blender.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the blended mixture with soy sauce, sugar, mirin, corn syrup, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, chopped green onion, and water.


Step 2. Marinate the Ribs
- Rinse the meat thoroughly to remove bone particles. (This step is crucial!)
- Marinate the ribs in the sauce. Start by pouring some sauce in the bottom of your container, then add ribs, more sauce, more ribs, and so on. Pour the remaining sauce over the top.
- Marinate for at least 4 hours at room temperature, then refrigerate for 8 hours (or longer for best results).



Step 3. Sear and Cook the Ribs
- Place the marinated ribs in a cold frying pan before turning on the heat. Add about a third of a cup of the marinade to the pan. Cook over medium-high heat, flipping often, until most of the sauce has evaporated and the ribs are seared. Reduce heat to medium to finish cooking.

Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Cut the cooked ribs with scissors.
Read more: Perfect Korean BBQ Pork: Yangnyeom Teji Galbi Recipe
Tips
- Using a Korean pear is highly recommended for the best flavor in the marinade.
- Kiwi helps tenderize the meat, especially if using a thicker cut like flanking.
- Don't heat the pan before adding the marinated ribs; this prevents burning.
- For the LA Galbi Toppings, finely chop onions and soak them in cold water to reduce spiciness.
- Use fresh eggs for poached eggs to ensure they hold their shape properly.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 2500-3000
- Fat: 150-200g
- Carbs: 200-250g
- Protein: 100-120g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of meat for LA Galbi?
While short ribs are traditional, you can try thinly sliced beef chuck or flank steak. Just remember to adjust marinating time as tougher cuts may need longer.
2. How do I achieve that signature caramelized crust?
High heat is key! Sear the marinated ribs over high heat for a few minutes per side to create a beautiful, flavorful crust before reducing the heat to finish cooking.
With its rich flavor and tender texture, your homemade LA Galbi will undoubtedly become a new family favorite. This recipe is a testament to the rewarding experience of mastering a classic Korean dish. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary journey, and don't hesitate to experiment with different marinades and grilling techniques to personalize your perfect LA Galbi!