Korean BBQ Wagyu Beef Recipe

by Muhammad Noman

Korean BBQ Wagyu Beef brings together the melt-in-your-mouth texture of Wagyu beef with bold, savory Korean flavors. Marinated in a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and sugar, this dish highlights the balance of sweet and salty that Korean BBQ is famous for. Grilling the Wagyu adds a smoky char, enhancing its natural richness. Perfect for grilling outdoors or indoors, this recipe is great for gatherings, offering a memorable fusion of premium beef and traditional Korean spices.

PREP TIME

20 minutes (plus 2 hours marinating time)

COOK TIME

10 minutes

YIELD

Serves 4

DIFFICULTY

Easy

Ingredients:

1 lb Wagyu beef, thinly sliced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, minced
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish
2 green onions, sliced, for garnish

Method:

Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and gochujang. Stir well to combine.
Marinate the Wagyu:
Add the thinly sliced Wagyu beef to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse into the meat.
Grill the Wagyu:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade and grill each slice for 1-2 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness.
Serve:
Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot, alongside steamed rice, lettuce wraps, or kimchi.

How to Slice Wagyu for Korean BBQ

For the best results, slice the Wagyu beef thinly across the grain. This not only ensures the beef cooks quickly but also maintains its tender texture. Using a sharp knife and slightly freezing the beef beforehand can help achieve the perfect thin slices.

Summary:

Korean BBQ Wagyu Beef is a mouthwatering fusion of luxurious Wagyu beef and the bold, dynamic flavors of Korean cuisine. The rich marbling of the Wagyu ensures each bite is tender and juicy, while the marinade—a perfect blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and a touch of gochujang—adds layers of savory, sweet, and subtly spicy flavors. Grilling the marinated beef imparts a smoky char that enhances its natural richness, creating a truly memorable dish. Whether served at a backyard BBQ or as part of a family dinner, this recipe is ideal for sharing, especially when accompanied by traditional Korean sides like kimchi, steamed rice, or pickled vegetables. You can also wrap the grilled beef in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, vibrant bite that balances the dish’s richness. Its versatility makes it a crowd-pleaser for both casual gatherings and more special occasions.

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