Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Flavor-Packed Korean Beef Bulgogi Meatballs Recipe

Flavor-Packed Korean Beef Bulgogi Meatballs Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sizzling Korean Beef Bulgogi Meatballs bring bold Asian flavors to classic comfort food. Savory marinades and perfectly seasoned ground beef create an irresistible dish that delights dinner companions with complex, mouthwatering notes you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 500 grams (1.1 pounds) ground beef

Seasonings and Spices:

  • ½ teaspoon paprika powder
  • ¼ teaspoon white pepper powder
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon beef stock powder

Aromatics and Binding Ingredients:

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Bulgogi Sauce Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons chili sauce (optional)
  • ½ pear, grated
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ tablespoon cornstarch

Garnish:

  • Green onions, sliced
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Combine ground beef with aromatic seasonings in a mixing vessel, gently kneading until ingredients are thoroughly integrated and uniform.
  2. Craft compact spherical portions, using minimal pressure to maintain a tender texture while ensuring consistent sizing.
  3. Warm a skillet with a thin layer of cooking oil, allowing surface to reach optimal searing temperature.
  4. Gently introduce meatballs into the heated pan, rotating periodically to achieve an even, rich golden-brown exterior and complete internal cooking.
  5. Remove perfectly seared meatballs, allowing them to rest momentarily while preparing the signature sauce.
  6. In the same skillet, sauté finely diced onions until they become translucent and release their sweet, delicate fragrance.
  7. Whisk together robust bulgogi sauce components, creating a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors.
  8. Pour sauce into the skillet, allowing it to simmer and develop a slightly caramelized consistency with intense depth.
  9. Reintroduce meatballs into the bubbling sauce, gently coating each sphere to ensure complete flavor absorption.
  10. Allow the ensemble to meld together for several minutes, developing a rich, glossy finish.
  11. Present atop steamed rice, adorned with freshly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.

Notes

  • Adjust meat fat content for juicier meatballs by using ground beef with 15-20% fat, ensuring a tender and flavorful result.
  • Chill the meatball mixture for 30 minutes before shaping to help them hold together better and prevent falling apart during cooking.
  • Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option, keeping the same delicious bulgogi flavor profile.
  • Control spice levels
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg