Korean Barbecue Sauce

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Korean Barbecue Sauce

Dive into the rich tapestry of flavors with this homemade Korean Barbecue Sauce that beautifully balances sweetness, savory depth, and just the right amount of heat. The marriage of ingredients like soy sauce, rich brown sugar, and fragrant sesame oil creates a sauce that not only elevates grilled meats but also transforms vegetables and appetizers into culinary delights. With a hint of spice from red pepper flakes and the aromatic warmth of garlic and ginger, this sauce embodies the spirit of Korean barbecue—a beloved social dining experience that brings friends and family together around the grill. Perfect for marinating meats, drizzling on grilled vegetables, or as a delightful dipping sauce, this recipe captures the essence of Korean cuisine in every drop.

Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • Soy sauce (1/2 cup)
  • Brown sugar (1/4 cup)
  • Sesame oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Minced garlic (4 cloves)
  • Grated ginger (1 tablespoon)
  • Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons)
  • Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon, toasted)
  • Chopped green onions (2, for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (1 teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
  2. Next, fold in the toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and red pepper flakes, stirring until evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
  3. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a touch more brown sugar. For extra heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
  4. Use this sauce immediately as a marinade for meats such as beef, chicken, or pork. Allow the meat to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
  5. Alternatively, serve the sauce as a dipping sauce alongside grilled vegetables, dumplings, or spring rolls for a delightful appetizer.
  6. To store any leftovers, transfer the sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Dietary Information

Servings: 8 • Dish Type: Sauce • Prep Time: 10 minutes • Calories: 70 • Fat: 3g • Carbs: 10g • Protein: 2g • Sodium: 800mg • Sugar: 8g