Korean grilled pork ribs (galbi)
Galbi is a beloved Korean dish of beef or pork short ribs marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then grilled to a caramelized perfection. The marinade typically features soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, and Asian pear, which tenderizes the meat. It's a staple of Korean barbecue, often cooked at the table and wrapped in lettuce leaves.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Galbi is a high-protein dish, with the ribs providing a substantial amount of iron and B vitamins. It is also relatively high in fat and calories due to the marbled meat and sugary marinade, with a typical serving ranging from 400 to 600 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbs | 15 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Potassium | 420 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Zinc | 6 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.5 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 8 mg |
| Phosphorus | 250 mg |
| Selenium | 30 mcg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.6 mg |
Per 1 serving (about 250 g, including meat and sauce) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, galbi is a centerpiece of communal dining and celebration in Korea, often associated with holidays and family gatherings. Nutritionally, the use of Asian pear in the marinade is a unique technique that contains natural enzymes which help break down proteins, making the meat exceptionally tender.
