Heart-Healthy Korean Beef Bulgogi

Discover the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition with Heart-Healthy Korean Beef Bulgogi, a lighter twist on the classic Korean favorite. This dish features tender slices of lean beef sirloin marinated in a savory blend of low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and grated ginger, with the natural sweetness of grated pear for added depth. Packed with fresh vegetables like julienned carrots, crisp onions, and chopped green onions, this recipe delivers vibrant colors and wholesome goodness in every bite. Served with red leaf lettuce wraps for a low-carb, nutrient-rich alternative to rice, this 20-minute meal is ideal for those seeking a heart-healthy yet indulgent dining experience. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or as a flavorful appetizer, this guilt-free Korean barbecue-inspired dish brings together bold taste and health-conscious ingredients with ease.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams lean beef sirloin
• 60 milliliters low-sodium soy sauce
• 15 milliliters sesame oil
• 20 grams brown sugar
• 15 grams minced garlic
• 10 grams grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon crushed black pepper
• 2 pieces green onion
• 10 grams sesame seeds
• 1 small pear
• 1 large carrot
• 1 medium onion
• 1 head red leaf lettuce

Directions

Step 1

Start by thinly slicing the beef sirloin against the grain. This ensures tenderness.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and crushed black pepper to create a marinade.

Step 3

Peel and grate the pear, and add it to the marinade. The enzymes in the pear help in tenderizing the meat and providing a subtle sweetness.

Step 4

Add the sliced beef sirloin to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, for up to 2 hours.

Step 5

Meanwhile, julienne the carrot, finely slice the onion, and chop the green onions.

Step 6

Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Step 7

Stir-fry the beef for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and slightly caramelized. If needed, add a splash of water to prevent sticking.

Step 8

Add the sliced onions and carrots to the pan, stir-frying them with the beef for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 9

Transfer the cooked bulgogi into a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Step 10

Rinse the red leaf lettuce leaves and use them as wraps for the bulgogi. Serve each wrap with beef and vegetables nestled inside them.

Step 11

Enjoy your heart-healthy Korean Beef Bulgogi either as a meal or appetizer.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1333.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1617.2

Total Fat 71.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 23.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 8.6g
Cholesterol 375mg	0%
Sodium 2753.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 87.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.2g	0%
Total Sugars 46.3g
Protein 154.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 298.7mg	0%
Iron 20.8mg	0%
Potassium 3057.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.1%

Protein: 38.3%

Carbs: 21.6%