What Is Bulgogi? A Foreigner’s Guide to Korean Bulgogi
If you want to try Korean food but are worried about spicy dishes, bulgogi (불고기) is one of the easiest places to start. Bulgogi is usually made with thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then cooked in a pan, on a grill, or over an open flame. Korea Tourism Organization describes the familiar version as thin slices of beef seasoned with ingredients that can include onions and pears, then cooked until tender. Unlike tteokbokki or some spicy Korean stews, classic beef bulgogi does not normally rely on red chili paste for its main flavor. Instead, expect something: Sweet Savory Garlicky Slightly smoky, depending on how it is cooked Tender and juicy But there is one thing first-time visitors should know: not every dish called bulgogi looks or tastes exactly the same . Some restaurants serve juicy bulgogi with broth and vegetables. Others grill marinated beef over charcoal until the edges become smoky and slightly caramelized. You may also see pork, chicken, or sea...