Korean BBQ sauce, also known as “bulgogi sauce,” is a captivating blend of flavors that serves as the soulful essence of Korean grilling.
This delectable concoction traditionally combines ingredients like soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil, creating a harmonious mix of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes.
Essential to Korean culinary traditions, this sauce not only marinates meats to perfection but also ignites a sensory journey through its rich, glossy texture and aromatic allure.
Whether brushed on grilled meats or used as a dip, this BBQ sauce is a testament to the complexity and richness of Korea’s food culture, turning simple meals into memorable feasts.
How To Make Korean BBQ Sauce?
Preparation Times: 10 minutes
Cooking Times: 10 minutes
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: Korean
Yields: Approximately 2 cups of sauce
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Korean chili paste (gochujang)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Optional: 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step-1. Mix Cornstarch Solution
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Set aside.
Step-2. Combine Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir over medium heat until the sugar starts to dissolve.
Step-3. Add Flavor Enhancers
Stir in sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang. Mix well to integrate all the flavors.
Step-4. Thicken the Sauce
Bring the mixture to a low simmer. Slowly pour in the cornstarch solution, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Step-5. Finish with Sesame
Remove from heat and stir in toasted sesame seeds and black pepper.
Step-6. Garnish and Serve
Allow the sauce to cool slightly before using. If desired, garnish with finely chopped green onions when serving.
Nutrition Facts Of Korean BBQ Sauce
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70 |
| Total Fat | 3g |
| Sodium | 820mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Protein | 2g |
Serving Suggestions
☸ This versatile BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with grilled meats such as beef, chicken, or pork. It also adds a delicious kick to stir-fries, noodles, or even roasted vegetables.
☸ Serve it alongside steamed rice and your favorite side dishes for a complete Korean-inspired feast.
Tips and Variations
➤ For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of Korean chili paste (gochujang) or add a dash of hot sauce.
➤ If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the ingredients in a food processor before simmering.
➤ Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Special Note
Instead of gochujang, you can use Korean chili paste, can be a combination of miso paste and red pepper flakes or a mix of chili paste.
FAQS
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Can I make this BBQ sauce without gochujang?
While gochujang provides a unique flavor, you can substitute it with a mix of red chili flakes and a little extra honey or sugar to mimic its spicy-sweet profile.
How long can I store this BBQ Sauce?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this BBQ Sauce can last up to 3-4 weeks.
Is this BBQ sauce vegan?
Most Korean BBQ Sauces are vegan, but since recipes can vary, it’s important to check the ingredients. Specifically, ensure that any added sugar is processed without animal products.
How can I thicken this BBQ sauce?
If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it longer, or by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water to reach the desired consistency.
Conclusion
With its irresistible combination of flavors and versatility, this Korean BBQ sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply spicing up a weeknight meal, this sauce will take your dishes to the next level. Give it a try and prepare to be amazed by the mouthwatering results.
Korean BBQ sauce
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger minced
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Korean chili paste gochujang
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Optional: 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir over medium heat until the sugar starts to dissolve.
- Stir in sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang. Mix well to integrate all the flavors.
- Bring the mixture to a low simmer. Slowly pour in the cornstarch solution, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in toasted sesame seeds and black pepper.
- Allow the sauce to cool slightly before using. If desired, garnish with finely chopped green onions when serving.
Notes
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.