How to Make Delicious Galbitang in 7 Easy Steps

Galbitang, also known as Korean Beef Short Rib Soup, is a soothing and nourishing dish made with beef short ribs simmered for hours to create a rich, clear broth. This traditional Korean soup is loved for its deep flavor and tender meat, making it perfect for a comforting meal, especially during colder months. Follow these seven steps to create a delicious and authentic Galbitang at home.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

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

• Beef Short Ribs (1.5 kg): Cut into individual pieces, traditionally used for their rich flavor and tenderness.
• Water (12 cups): Used to create the broth.
• Garlic (8-10 cloves): Whole, for a deep, aromatic flavor.
• Korean Radish (Mu) (200g): Peeled and cut into large chunks, adding sweetness and balance to the broth.
• Onion (1 medium): Halved, for added depth and sweetness.
• Green Onions (3 stalks): Cut into 2-inch pieces, for both cooking and garnish.
• Black Peppercorns (1 tsp): Adds subtle spice to the broth.
• Soy Sauce (2 tbsp): For seasoning the broth.
• Salt (to taste): To season the broth to your preference.
• Dangmyeon (Glass Noodles) (100g, optional): Soaked in warm water, adding a chewy texture to the soup.
• Sesame Seeds (1 tbsp, optional): For garnish.
• Egg (1, optional): Beaten and cooked into thin strips 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. After soaking, drain the water and rinse the ribs under cold running water. This step is crucial for achieving a clean, flavorful soup.

Step 3: Blanch the Ribs

In a large pot, bring a few cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed beef short ribs and blanch them for about 5 minutes to remove any remaining impurities. After blanching, drain the ribs and rinse them once more under cold water. Clean the pot before returning the ribs to it for simmering.

Step 4: Simmer the Broth

Add 12 cups of fresh water to the pot with the cleaned short ribs. Add the whole garlic cloves, Korean radish chunks, onion halves, green onions, and black peppercorns. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the broth simmer for at least 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the broth is rich and flavorful. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface to keep the broth clear.

Step 5: Season the Broth

After simmering, remove the radish, onion, and green onions from the pot. These can be discarded or eaten separately. Season the broth with soy sauce and salt to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference. The broth should have a deep, savory flavor with a subtle sweetness from the radish.

Step 6: Prepare the Noodles and Garnishes

If using dangmyeon (glass noodles), soak them in warm water until they soften, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside. For an optional garnish, beat an egg and cook it in a thin layer in a non-stick pan, then slice it into thin strips. You can also toast some sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Step 7: Serve the Galbitang

To serve, place the softened glass noodles into individual bowls. Ladle the hot broth and beef short ribs over the noodles, ensuring each bowl has a generous portion of both. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and the optional egg strips. Serve the Galbitang hot, accompanied by steamed rice and kimchi for a complete meal. Enjoy the rich, warming flavors of this traditional Korean soup!

Extra Tips to Elevate Your Galbitang

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

• Use Bone-In Short Ribs: The bones add additional richness to the broth, creating a deeper flavor.
• Simmer Longer for Richer Broth: If time allows, simmer the broth for up to 4-5 hours. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful and concentrated the broth will become.

Enjoy your meal with this comforting and flavorful beef soup. Wishing you a delightful dining experience with delicious food and good company!