Cuban-style Bulgogi

Ingredients

While the original Korean bulgogi is typically made with thinly sliced beef marinated in a soy-based sauce, Cuban-style Bulgogi incorporates Cuban spices and ingredients to give it a unique twist. The marinade includes elements like citrus juices, garlic, cumin, and oregano, which are commonly used in Cuban cuisine. Additionally, the dish is often served with traditional Cuban side dishes and drinks to enhance the overall Cuban experience. We alse have the original recipe for Bulgogi, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef sirloin, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lime juice 1/4 cup (60ml) lime juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 6g (Sugars: 3g)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, paprika, chili powder, cinnamon, and cloves. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. 2.
   Place the thinly sliced beef in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure all the beef slices are coated evenly. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. 3.
   Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
4. 4.
   Cook the beef slices for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. 5.
   Once cooked, transfer the beef to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef — Choose a tender cut of beef like sirloin for the best results. Slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Orange and Lime Juice — Use freshly squeezed juice for the brightest and most vibrant flavors.
• Garlic — Mince the garlic finely to evenly distribute its flavor throughout the marinade.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can grill the marinated beef over charcoal.
• Serve the Havana Bulgogi with traditional Cuban side dishes like black beans and rice, fried plantains, and yuca.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Leftover Havana Bulgogi makes a delicious filling for Cuban-style sandwiches.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to suit your taste.

Serving advice

Serve the Havana Bulgogi hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Accompany it with a side of black beans and rice, fried plantains, and yuca for an authentic Cuban meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled beef slices on a platter, drizzling any remaining marinade over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for a vibrant and appetizing presentation.