What's in it
Beef, soy sauce, pear, garlic, onion, sesame oil.
More about Bulgogi
There are two main styles. Seoul-style bulgogi is cooked in a domed pan with broth and glass noodles, so it is juicy and saucy. Southern towns such as Gwangyang and Eonyang grill it drier over charcoal. With no chili in the marinade, bulgogi is a safe first Korean dish for children and anyone who avoids spicy food.
New to Korean BBQ?
See how to eat Korean BBQ: the cuts in English, who grills, how to wrap ssam, prices and what to order to finish.
Special diets and allergies
- Vegetarian: no — beef is part of the dish.
- Pork: usually pork-free — meat is not halal unless the restaurant is certified; the marinade may contain cooking wine.
- Allergens: Wheat / gluten, Soy, Sesame.
Recipes vary between restaurants. If an ingredient matters to you, ask before you order — or show a diet card.
Quick answers
What is Bulgogi?
Thin slices of beef marinated in sweet soy sauce with pear and garlic, grilled or cooked in a shallow pan with broth.
Is Bulgogi spicy?
No — it is not spicy.
Is Bulgogi vegetarian?
No — beef is part of the dish.
Does Bulgogi contain pork?
Usually pork-free — meat is not halal unless the restaurant is certified; the marinade may contain cooking wine.
Is Bulgogi gluten-free?
No — it usually contains wheat (gluten). Recipes vary, so ask if you need to avoid it.
What is Bulgogi called in Korean?
불고기, pronounced “bulgogi”.