The Pear Marinade
Traditional marinades use grated pear to tenderise the beef. This gives the meat a natural sweetness that sugar alone cannot replicate. The beef should be sliced paper-thin so it cooks fast and absorbs every drop of the soy and garlic sauce.
The Ssam Wrap
The best way to eat this at a restaurant is to wrap the meat in a fresh lettuce leaf with a bit of rice and ssamjang sauce. The crunch of the cold lettuce against the hot, fatty beef is the perfect contrast. It is a messy, hands-on experience.
Quick answers
- Is bulgogi always beef?
- Usually yes, but you might see pork or chicken versions on the menu labelled as such. Beef is the classic.
- Is it kid-friendly?
- Definitely. Since it is not spicy and has a sweet profile, kids usually finish their portion very quickly.