Korean BBQ Brisket With Kimchi Slaw
Korean BBQ brisket with kimchi slaw is a mouthwatering fusion of smoky, tender beef and vibrant, spicy slaw. The brisket is marinated in a savory-sweet Korean BBQ sauce, then grilled or roasted to perfection, while the kimchi slaw adds a refreshing, tangy crunch that perfectly balances the rich meat.
This dish is an exciting, flavorful twist on traditional BBQ, infusing your brisket with the bold flavors of Korean cuisine. It’s ideal for a casual summer dinner, an impressive BBQ gathering, or when you’re craving something unique and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Korean BBQ Brisket With Kimchi Slaw Recipe?
- Flavor explosion: Sweet, savory brisket paired with spicy, tangy kimchi slaw creates the perfect balance.
- Grill or roast: This recipe works well for both grilling and oven-roasting, offering flexibility for different cooking methods.
- Fusion cuisine at its best: A creative mix of Korean BBQ flavors and classic BBQ brisket.
- Quick and easy: The brisket can be prepped ahead, and the kimchi slaw takes minutes to make.
- Great for gatherings: A show-stopping dish that will impress your guests.
Ingredients For Korean BBQ Brisket With Kimchi Slaw
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of Korean BBQ brisket and the refreshing crunch of kimchi slaw. Here’s what you’ll need for each component:
For the Korean BBQ Brisket
- 2–3 lb beef brisket
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Kimchi Slaw
- 2 cups kimchi, finely chopped
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded (or use pre-shredded coleslaw mix)
- ½ cup grated carrots
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, depending on kimchi’s spiciness)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped
Step By Step Instruction To Make Korean BBQ Brisket With Kimchi Slaw
This recipe is simple to prepare but delivers a complex, delicious flavor profile. Whether you’re grilling or roasting, here’s how to make it step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Brisket Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame seeds, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper. Place the brisket in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the meat. Seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Brisket
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- For grilling: Remove the brisket from the marinade and grill for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until a nice char is formed, then reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for an additional 1–1.5 hours, or until the brisket reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) for optimal tenderness.
- For roasting: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the brisket on a rack in a roasting pan, and roast for 3–4 hours, or until tender and easily shredded. Baste occasionally with the marinade for extra flavor.
PRO TIP: If you have time, let the brisket rest for 15 minutes after cooking before slicing to lock in the juices.
Step 3: Prepare the Kimchi Slaw
In a large bowl, combine chopped kimchi, shredded cabbage, and grated carrots. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar (if using). Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss until well coated. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Step 4: Serve
Slice the brisket thinly against the grain, and serve with a generous helping of kimchi slaw on top or on the side. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or even wrapped in soft flour tortillas for a fun twist.
FAQs or Tips Section
Here are some helpful tips and answers to common questions about making Korean BBQ brisket with kimchi slaw.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as flank steak or skirt steak if you prefer a quicker cooking method. However, brisket is ideal for this dish as it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked or grilled low and slow.
How long can I marinate the brisket?
For the best flavor, marinate the brisket for at least 2 hours, but overnight in the fridge is even better. This allows the marinade to deeply infuse the meat, making it even more tender and flavorful.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, both the brisket and the kimchi slaw can be made ahead of time. The brisket can be marinated and cooked up to 2 days in advance. The kimchi slaw can also be made a day before serving—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. If you reheat the brisket, be sure to do so gently to preserve its tenderness.
How spicy is this dish?
The level of spice depends on the gochujang you use. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of gochujang or opt for a milder variety. The kimchi slaw adds a tangy flavor with a bit of spice, but it’s balanced by the creamy mayo dressing.
Can I substitute the kimchi slaw with another type of slaw?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of kimchi, you can make a traditional coleslaw with cabbage, carrots, and a vinegar-based dressing. However, the unique tangy and spicy flavor of kimchi adds a distinctive contrast that complements the rich brisket.
Variations or Serving Suggestions
- Add pickled vegetables: Serve the brisket with additional pickled vegetables like pickled cucumbers or radishes for a tangy crunch that complements the richness of the meat.
- Serve in tacos: For a fun twist, serve the brisket and kimchi slaw in soft flour tortillas or corn tortillas for Korean BBQ tacos.
- Spice it up: Add a few dashes of chili flakes or hot sauce to the kimchi slaw if you like extra heat.
- Serve with rice: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the flavorful juices from the brisket.
Nutrition + Summary
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Total Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Sodium | 900mg |
Summary:
Korean BBQ brisket with kimchi slaw is a flavorful and dynamic dish that combines the richness of tender brisket with the spicy, tangy crunch of kimchi slaw. The savory marinade gives the brisket deep, smoky flavors, while the slaw adds a fresh contrast, making each bite exciting and balanced. Whether served over rice, in tacos, or on its own, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings a unique twist to classic BBQ. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making it perfect for meal prep or casual meals throughout the week.
Disclaimer: Nutritional information on this blog is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and portions. We are not nutritionists and recommend consulting a professional for specific dietary advice.