Korean Boneless Short Ribs: Tender, Juicy, and Easy to Cook
Korean boneless short ribs are a modern twist on traditional galbi. Instead of using cross-cut ribs, boneless beef short ribs are marinated and seared to perfection. The meat’s marbling gives it an ultra-tender bite while still delivering that authentic smoky flavor. These ribs are perfect for home cooks who want restaurant-quality Korean BBQ without special equipment. You can cook them on a stovetop grill pan, oven broiler, or outdoor grill the result remains irresistible.
Korean Boneless Short Ribs in Oven – Simple Weeknight Dinner
If you don’t have a grill, Korean boneless short ribs in the oven are a convenient and equally delicious option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), lay the marinated ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Finish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes to achieve that glossy, caramelized crust. The result is tender ribs with deep, concentrated flavor the perfect centerpiece for steamed rice, kimchi, and pickled radish.
Korean Short Ribs in Oven – Traditional Galbi Flavor Indoors
When outdoor grilling isn’t possible, the Korean short ribs in oven method brings that same BBQ flavor indoors. Using flanken-cut ribs, marinate them overnight for best results, then roast at 375°F (190°C) until lightly charred. The sugars in the marinade caramelize beautifully, creating a glossy, sticky coating. This oven method works great for feeding larger groups while keeping cleanup easy. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving for that authentic restaurant presentation.
How to Cook Korean Short Ribs on Stove
Cooking Korean short ribs on the stove is fast and flavorful. Use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush with oil, then sear each side for 2–3 minutes until browned and slightly crisp. The key is not to overcrowd the pan allow proper browning for that smoky, charred aroma. Pour leftover marinade into the pan and simmer for 1–2 minutes to create a glossy glaze. Serve immediately with rice and spicy cucumber salad for a classic Korean home meal.
Korean Short Ribs Marinade – The Secret to Authentic Flavor
The Korean short ribs marinade is the heart of this dish. The base includes soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and pear puree (often Asian pear). The natural fruit enzymes tenderize the meat while adding sweetness. Some chefs add rice wine or honey for depth. The marinade should sit for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This balance of salty-sweet-savory notes is what gives Korean BBQ its world-famous addictive taste.
Easy Marinade for Beef Short Ribs (Quick Version)
For a faster meal, try this easy marinade for beef short ribs:
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp ginger (grated)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp black pepper
Mix ingredients, pour over short ribs, and marinate for 1–2 hours. This shortcut still delivers deep umami flavor and that caramelized glaze when cooked on a grill or skillet.
BBQ Short Ribs Recipe – Korean-Style Grill Perfection
A BBQ short ribs recipe becomes truly memorable when done Korean-style. Fire up a charcoal or gas grill, preheat on high, and cook marinated ribs for 2–3 minutes per side. The high heat locks in juices while charring the sugars from the marinade. Brush extra sauce on while grilling for a lacquered finish. Pair with lettuce wraps (ssam), garlic cloves, gochujang paste, and kimchi for a real K-BBQ experience. Serve with cold beer or soju for a weekend feast.
Korean Flanken Ribs Recipe – LA Galbi Style
The Korean flanken ribs recipe is often called LA Galbi because of its popularity in Los Angeles Korean communities. The ribs are thinly sliced across the bone and marinated in a similar soy-sesame-pear mixture. These cook extremely quickly usually just 2 minutes per side on a hot grill. The key is slicing consistency and soaking time; the thin cuts absorb marinade rapidly, giving intense flavor and that signature glossy shine.
Boneless Short Rib Recipe – Tender and Versatile
A boneless short rib recipe offers the flexibility to use different cooking styles grill, oven, or slow cooker. The meat remains tender because of its natural fat content. When marinated Korean-style, these ribs gain an irresistible glaze. They can also be shredded for rice bowls, tacos, or sandwiches, making them perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Best Korean Boneless Short Rib Recipe
The best Korean boneless short rib recipe balances three essentials: a flavorful marinade, proper searing, and correct resting time. After cooking, let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices. Garnish with sesame seeds and scallions. This method ensures maximum tenderness and that restaurant-style finish that makes Korean BBQ unforgettable.
Korean Boneless Short Rib Recipe Easy (For Beginners)
If you’re new to Korean cooking, this easy Korean boneless short rib recipe is foolproof. Use pre-cut boneless ribs, bottled Korean BBQ sauce, and a grill pan. Marinate for 30 minutes, sear both sides until browned, and serve with steamed rice and kimchi. Even without special ingredients, you’ll get authentic Korean flavor in under an hour.
Korean Boneless Short Rib Recipe Oven – No Grill Needed
The Korean boneless short rib recipe oven version is ideal for home cooks. Bake ribs on parchment paper at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, then broil for 3–4 minutes to caramelize. This technique keeps the meat juicy and gives that glossy, restaurant-style finish with minimal effort.
Korean Boneless Short Rib Recipe Slow Cooker
The Korean boneless short rib recipe slow cooker is perfect for busy days. Combine ribs with marinade, set on low for 6–7 hours, and let the flavors develop slowly. The result: fork-tender meat coated in rich Korean BBQ sauce. Serve with rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps comfort food at its finest.
FAQs
Q1: What are Korean short ribs made of?
Korean short ribs use beef short ribs, either flanken-cut or boneless, marinated in a soy-sesame-garlic blend for rich, savory-sweet flavor.
Q2: What’s the difference between flanken and boneless Korean ribs?
Flanken ribs are thinly sliced across the bone, while boneless short ribs are thicker cuts without bones, offering easier cooking and tender bites.
Q3: How long should I marinate Korean short ribs?
For best results, marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the pear enzymes and spices to tenderize the meat fully.
Q4: Can I cook Korean short ribs in the oven or slow cooker?
Yes, both methods work great! Oven-baked ribs get crispy edges, while slow-cooker versions become ultra-tender and flavorful.
Q5: What side dishes go best with Korean short ribs?
Serve with steamed rice, kimchi, pickled radish, or lettuce wraps (ssam) for a full Korean BBQ experience.
Conclusion: Korean Short Ribs a Celebration of Flavor
From sizzling grill plates to tender oven-baked versions, Korean short ribs recipes showcase Korea’s mastery of balance sweet, savory, smoky, and tender. Whether you’re using flanken-cut or boneless beef, every version delivers that signature caramelized crust and juicy interior. It’s a dish that turns any meal into a celebration, uniting people around the flavors of Seoul, Busan, and beyond.