Description
The Bulgogi Kimchi Burger is a juicy, flavorful fusion of Korean BBQ and classic American-style burgers. Featuring marinated bulgogi beef patties infused with sweet and savory notes, tangy fermented kimchi, and fresh green onions, this burger delivers a perfect balance of bold, layered flavors and satisfying textures. Soft brioche or potato buns cradle the savory filling, enhanced by optional creamy sauces and crunchy slaw for a gourmet comfort food experience that’s easy to make and customizable to your taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Marinade
- 1 lb ground beef or pork (80/20 blend recommended)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (freshly toasted preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated Asian pear or apple
Burger Assembly
- 4 burger buns (brioche or potato buns preferred)
- 1 cup kimchi, drained and chopped
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
- Mayo or spicy aioli, as desired
Optional Additions
- Cheese slices (cheddar, mozzarella, or Korean cheese)
- Cabbage slaw
- Extra toppings: tomato slices, cucumber ribbons, pickled radish
- Gluten-free buns (if needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bulgogi Marinade and Meat: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, sugar, sesame oil, and grated Asian pear or apple. Mix well to create the marinade. Gently fold the ground beef or pork into the marinade, ensuring the meat is evenly coated without overworking it.
- Form Patties and Marinate: Shape the marinated meat into evenly sized patties about ¾-inch thick. If time permits, let the patties rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow deep flavor absorption.
- Toast the Buns and Prepare Toppings: Lightly toast the burger buns in a pan or oven with a little butter to achieve a slight crunch. Drain kimchi to remove excess moisture, chop green onions, and prepare any optional slaw or sauces you want to include.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side until nicely caramelized and cooked through. Avoid pressing down on the patties to retain their juiciness.
- Assemble the Bulgogi Kimchi Burger: Spread mayonnaise or spicy aioli on the toasted buns. Place the cooked patty on the bun, add a generous scoop of chopped kimchi, sprinkle chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top, then cover with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh sesame oil for authentic aroma and nuttiness in the marinade.
- Allow sufficient marination time to enhance flavor and tenderness of patties.
- Drain kimchi well to prevent sogginess in the burger.
- Toast buns just enough to provide texture contrast and avoid sogginess.
- Customize spice level by adding sriracha or gochujang mayo according to personal preference.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying / Grilling
- Cuisine: Korean Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Bulgogi, Kimchi, Korean BBQ, Burger, Korean Fusion, Spicy Burger, Comfort Food