How to Make Delicious Galbijjim in 7 Easy Steps

Galbijjim, also known as Korean Braised Short Ribs, is a rich and flavorful dish that features tender beef short ribs slow-cooked in a savory and slightly sweet sauce. Often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays, Galbijjim is a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with steamed rice. Follow these seven steps to create a delicious and authentic Galbijjim at home.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

To make flavorful Galbijjim, you will need the following ingredients:

• Beef Short Ribs (1.5 kg): Bone-in, cut into large pieces for a rich and tender result.
• Soy Sauce (1/2 cup): The base of the sauce, providing depth and umami.
• Sugar (2 tbsp): Balances the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
• Sesame Oil (2 tbsp): Adds a nutty aroma and richness.
• Garlic (6 cloves): Minced, for a pungent kick.
• Ginger (1 tbsp): Grated, for warmth and complexity.
• Korean Pear (1/2, grated): Adds natural sweetness and helps tenderize the meat.
• Onion (1 medium): Sliced, adding sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Carrot (1 large): Cut into large chunks, adding color and texture.
• Korean Radish (Mu) (200g): Peeled and cut into large chunks, for a mild sweetness.
• Shiitake Mushrooms (150g): Rehydrated if dried, sliced, for earthiness.
• Chestnuts (optional, 8-10): Adds sweetness and texture to the dish.
• Water or Beef Broth (3 cups): For simmering the ribs and creating the sauce.
• Green Onions (2 stalks): Chopped, for garnish.
• Sesame Seeds (1 tbsp): For garnish.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Short Ribs

Begin by soaking the beef short ribs in cold water for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps remove excess blood and impurities from the meat, resulting in a clearer broth and better flavor. After soaking, drain the water and rinse the ribs under cold running water. Blanch the ribs in boiling water for 5 minutes to remove any remaining impurities. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and grated Korean pear. Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved. This marinade will infuse the beef with deep, rich flavors. If using rehydrated shiitake mushrooms, add the mushroom soaking liquid for extra umami.

Step 4: Marinate the Short Ribs

Add the blanched short ribs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the ribs and marinade to a resealable plastic bag. Marinate the ribs in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. The longer the ribs marinate, the more flavorful and tender they will become.

Step 5: Cook the Short Ribs

In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the marinated ribs along with the marinade. Pour in 3 cups of water or beef broth, and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the ribs simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables

After the ribs have simmered for about an hour, add the onion, carrot, Korean radish, shiitake mushrooms, and chestnuts (if using) to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened. The flavors of the vegetables will meld with the rich sauce, enhancing the dish’s complexity.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the ribs are tender and the sauce has reduced to a thick consistency, remove the pot from the heat. Transfer the Galbijjim to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot, accompanied by steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this traditional Korean dish!

Extra Tips to Elevate Your Galbijjim

To make your Galbijjim even more delicious, consider these tips:

• Use Bone-In Ribs: The bones add additional richness to the sauce, creating a deeper flavor.
• Add a Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, add 1-2 tablespoons of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) or a few dried red chilies to the pot when simmering the ribs.

Enjoy your meal with this hearty and flavorful braised short rib dish. Wishing you a delightful dining experience with delicious food and good company!