Spicy Korean Beef Short Ribs

Name: Spicy Korean Beef Short Ribs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 lbs beef short ribs; 1 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 2 tbsp sesame oil; 1/4 cup honey; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, grated; 1 tsp black pepper; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tbsp sesame seeds

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 45 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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If you're craving something with a kick, these Spicy Korean Beef Short Ribs are just what you need. They blend the heat of gochujang with a sweet and savory marinade, creating an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for a summer cookout or a weekend dinner, these ribs are sure to impress!

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Ingredients for Spicy Korean Beef Short Ribs

Beef short ribs are the star here, offering rich, beefy flavor and a tender texture when cooked right. The gochujang adds heat and depth with its fermented chili paste complexity. Soy sauce brings umami richness, while rice vinegar adds a tangy balance. Sesame oil provides a nutty aroma that complements the beef. Honey balances the spice with sweetness, while garlic and ginger add aromatic layers. Black pepper enhances the overall flavor, and green onions and sesame seeds finish the dish with fresh and toasty accents.

Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor, marinate the ribs overnight.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
If you don't have a grill, a grill pan works well on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these ribs with steamed rice or a simple cucumber salad to balance the spice. A side of kimchi would also complement the flavors beautifully. For drinks, a crisp lager or a chilled white wine like Riesling can cut through the richness and heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?: While short ribs are ideal, you can try this marinade with flank steak or beef brisket for a similar effect.
Is there a substitute for gochujang?: Gochujang is unique, but you can mix red pepper flakes with a little soy sauce and sugar for a quick alternative.

Spicy Korean Beef Short Ribs Recipe Walkthrough

Start by assembling your marinade. In a large bowl, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed — this is where all the flavor magic begins.

Next, place your beef short ribs in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, making sure each rib is nicely coated. Cover the dish and pop it into the fridge for at least 2 hours. If you can, let them marinate overnight to really soak up all the flavors.

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Carefully take the ribs out of the marinade, letting the excess drip off, but save that marinade! You'll use it for basting.

Grill the ribs for about 5-6 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, and baste them occasionally with the reserved marinade for extra flavor. Aim for a nice char on the outside and tender meat inside.

Once done, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even more delicious.

Before serving, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. These add a fresh crunch and a bit of nuttiness to each bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Packs a punch of bold, spicy flavors.
The marinade is a game-changer, infusing the meat with rich taste.
Quick to grill, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings.
Easy to prepare ahead of time — great for stress-free hosting.

Ingredients

3 lbs beef short ribs

1 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup rice vinegar

2 tbsp sesame oil

1/4 cup honey

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp ginger, grated

1 tsp black pepper

2 green onions, chopped

1 tbsp sesame seeds

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.

2. Place the beef short ribs in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

4. Remove the ribs from the marinade and shake off excess. Reserve the marinade for basting.

5. Grill the ribs for about 5-6 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade, until they are slightly charred and cooked to your liking.