Netflix "K-Foodie Meets J-Foodie" Episode 7: Introduction to Korean Cuisine 'Pork Ribs'

The seventh episode of 'K-Foodie Meets J-Foodie' finally introduces a Korean restaurant, and the first featured spot is 'Buil Charcoal Galbi', a 30-year-old pork galbi restaurant located in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul. Below, I will introduce Buil Charcoal Galbi, provide details about its signature dish—pork galbi—and recommend other pork galbi restaurants in Seoul and Busan. For those eager to try the flavors of pork galbi at home, I’ll also share a recipe.

Chacoal Grilled Pork Ribs

About 'Bu-il Charcoal Grilled Ribs'

Bu-il Charcoal Grilled Ribs is located at 23-13 Yeongdeungpo-dong 3-ga, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea. It has a Google Maps rating of 4.5.

Business hours are as follows:

• Monday: 4:30 PM – 11:00 PM
• Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday: 4:30 PM – 11:00 PM
• Thursday: 4:30 PM – 11:00 PM
• Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Menu:

• Domestic Pork Ribs (300g): KRW 18,000
• Domestic Pork Belly (200g): KRW 17,000
• Beef Brisket Soybean Paste Stew: KRW 8,000
• Steamed Rice: KRW 1,000
• Soju: KRW 5,000
• Beer (Crush): KRW 5,000
• Soft Drinks: KRW 2,000

How is Pork Ribs Different from Bulgogi?

For visitors familiar with bulgogi, here’s how pork ribs differ:

Main Ingredient: Pork ribs use the rib section of pork, while bulgogi is made with thinly sliced beef.

Seasoning: Pork ribs are marinated for a long time in a sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil. Bulgogi uses soy sauce, pear juice, garlic, and sesame oil for a sweet and rich flavor.

Cooking Method: Pork ribs are grilled directly over charcoal for a smoky flavor. Bulgogi is cooked on a grill pan or sometimes as a hot pot dish.

Taste and Texture: Pork ribs are smoky with a sweet and savory taste and have a chewy yet tender texture. Bulgogi is soft, juicy, and characterized by its sweet marinade.

Golden Recipe for Pork Ribs at Home!

Experience the taste of Korea at home with this golden recipe for pork ribs.

Ingredients:

• Pork ribs (1kg)
• Onion (1/2)
• Pear (1/4)
• Green onion (1 stalk)
• Garlic (5 cloves)
• Soy sauce (100ml)
• Sugar (3 tbsp)
• Cooking wine (2 tbsp)
• Sesame oil (1 tbsp)

Instructions:

1. Score the pork ribs and remove any blood by soaking them in water.
2. Blend onion, pear, green onion, and garlic to make the marinade.
3. Marinate the pork ribs in the sauce and let it sit to absorb flavors.
4. Grill the pork ribs on charcoal or in a frying pan.
5. Serve with fresh lettuce wraps or other side dishes.

Must-Try Pork Rib Restaurants in Korea

If you’re traveling to Korea, here are some must-visit pork rib restaurants in Seoul and Busan:

Seoul:

• Original Jobakjip Main Branch: Located in Mapo-gu’s Tojeong-ro; known for its over 40 years of history and generous portions (Google rating: 4.2).
• Mido Galbi: Situated in Jongno-gu’s Samil-daero; famous for its over 50 years of history and clean ambiance (Google rating: 4.8).
• Yeongsam’s Ujeong So-Galbi Dongdaemun Branch: Located in Jung-gu’s Euljiro; offers affordable prices with over 30 years of history (Google rating: 4.9).

Busan:

• Hong’s House Busan Main Branch: Located in Nam-gu’s Yongho-dong; boasts over 50 years of history with generous servings (Google rating: 4.7).
• Song Manager’s Pork Ribs: Found in Geumjeong-gu’s Seodong; famous for its affordable prices with over 30 years of history (Google rating: 4.7).
• Dodam Galbi Teacher Seomyeon Branch: Situated in Busanjin-gu’s Seomyeon; offers a clean ambiance with over ten years of history (Google rating: 5).

Conclusion

Pork ribs are a quintessential part of Korean food culture that showcase the essence of Korean flavors. While today there are many dining options available, pork ribs were once considered a special treat during the ’80s as one of the most popular dishes for dining out on special occasions. With their sweet and savory taste, they are loved by children and foreigners alike. Whether you’re visiting Korea or cooking at home using the recipe above, don’t miss out on experiencing this iconic Korean dish!