Korean Galbitang
Korean Galbitang is a hearty and clear soup made by simmering beef short ribs for hours until the meat is incredibly tender. The broth is typically seasoned simply with garlic, ginger, and sometimes soy sauce or salt, and it's often served with sliced green onions and black pepper. This comforting dish is a staple in Korean cuisine, especially popular during colder months or as a restorative meal.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Galbitang is a high-protein dish due to the substantial amount of beef, with a moderate amount of fat from the ribs and a very low carbohydrate content. It's a good source of minerals like iron and zinc, and the long simmering process extracts collagen, which is beneficial for joints and skin. A typical serving contains roughly 300-450 calories, depending on the cut of meat and portion size.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 950 mg |
| Potassium | 480 mg |
| Phosphorus | 250 mg |
| Zinc | 4.5 mg |
| Iron | 2.8 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 3.2 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6.5 mg |
| Selenium | 22 mcg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
Per 1 bowl (400 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Galbitang is often considered a restorative or celebratory food in Korea, believed to provide stamina and aid in recovery. Nutritionally, the slow-cooked broth is prized not just for flavor but for its rich, gelatinous quality from dissolved collagen, making it a traditional 'beauty food' for skin health.
