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Savory Korean BBQ Beef Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps

korean bbq beef bulgogi lettuce wraps - featured image

These savory Korean BBQ beef bulgogi lettuce wraps feature thinly sliced marinated beef with a sweet and umami-rich marinade, wrapped in crisp lettuce for a fresh, flavorful meal perfect for quick dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound thinly sliced beef ribeye or sirloin
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
  • 2 tablespoons Asian pear juice or grated Asian pear
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon gochujang (optional)
  • Butter lettuce or green leaf lettuce leaves, washed and separated
  • 1 cup julienned carrots
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
  • Fresh cilantro or mint leaves (optional)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Sliced jalapeño or pickled radish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef Marinade (10 minutes): In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, pear juice, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and gochujang if using. Stir until sugar dissolves. Add the thinly sliced beef and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
  2. Prep the Veggies (10 minutes): While the beef marinates, wash and separate the lettuce leaves. Julienne the carrots and cucumber into thin, bite-sized strips. Slice green onions and any optional herbs. Set aside for assembling the wraps.
  3. Cook the Beef (5-7 minutes): Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated beef in a single layer without overcrowding (cook in batches if needed). Sear the beef for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned and caramelized, stirring occasionally. Avoid overcooking—thin slices cook fast! Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
  4. Assemble the Wraps (5 minutes): Lay a lettuce leaf flat on your plate. Add a spoonful of cooked bulgogi, then top with carrots, cucumber, green onions, and herbs. Add a slice of jalapeño or pickled radish if you like a little heat or tang. Fold or roll the lettuce around the filling and enjoy immediately.

Notes

Marinate beef for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours for best flavor. Use a hot pan and avoid overcrowding to get a good sear. Drizzle warmed leftover marinade over cooked beef if dry. Keep lettuce dry and assemble wraps just before serving to avoid sogginess. Substitute coconut aminos for soy sauce for gluten-free version. Vegetarian option: use king oyster mushrooms or tofu with same marinade.

Nutrition

Keywords: Korean BBQ, bulgogi, beef wraps, lettuce wraps, meal prep, Korean beef, savory, quick dinner