Kalbi uses short ribs cut across the bone into thin flanken strips, so every piece has meat, fat, and a ribbon of bone marrow. The sweet soy marinade needs grated Asian pear to tenderize the meat, and the grill has to be hot enough to lacquer the sugars into a dark char.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep20 min
Cook10 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineKorean
Cost$$$
Dairy-free
Contains gluten · soy · sesame
Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Flanken short ribs
Short ribs cut 1/3 inch across the bones; the marbling and bone give kalbi its richness.
A light hand — your arteries say thanks. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortEasy
Cook it with
Grill
The Method
RinseSoak the ribs in cold water 20 minutes to draw out bone dust and blood, then pat dry. This keeps the marinade clean and the char even.
MarinateWhisk soy, grated pear, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil; marinate the ribs 4 hours to overnight. The pear enzymes need time to soften the tougher rib meat.
GrillGrill over high heat 2-3 minutes per side until deeply charred and the sugars lacquer the surface. The bone protects the meat, so push the char hard.
Rest and cutRest 5 minutes, then snip between the bones with shears and scatter sesame seeds and scallion over the top.
Can you make Kalbi (Korean Short Ribs) in an air fryer? — Sometimes
Sometimes — if the pieces are small and cooked dry, an air fryer can handle it in a single layer; anything saucy or liquid needs a pan. When in doubt, the stovetop or oven is the safe call.
Can you freeze Kalbi (Korean Short Ribs)? — Yes
Yes — cool it, portion into airtight containers, and freeze; thaw in the fridge and reheat.
Can you make Kalbi (Korean Short Ribs) ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Kalbi (Korean Short Ribs) gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
Is Kalbi (Korean Short Ribs) vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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