20 Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Korean Beef

Korean beef, also known as bulgogi, is a flavorful dish that deserves equally tasty accompaniments. With its sweet and savory marinade, Korean beef pairs well with a variety of sides that complement and enhance its flavors.

In this article, we will explore 20 delicious options for side dishes to serve with Korean beef. From rice and noodle dishes to salads and vegetables, keep reading for inspiration on creating the perfect Korean beef meal.

Grains and Starches

These starchy sides are excellent for soaking up the Korean beef marinade and balancing out the dish.

Rice

• Plain white or brown rice is a classic pairing with Korean beef. The mild flavor soaks up the marinade perfectly. For extra flavor, try cooking the rice with a little sesame oil or gochujang paste.

Fried Rice

• Korean fried rice, made with kimchi, carrots, peas, and eggs, is an easy one-pan accompaniment. The savory umami flavor complements the sweet beef.

Quinoa

• This protein-rich grain has a satisfying crunch. Toss it with sesame oil, soy sauce, scallions, and garlic for a tasty Korean-inspired “bibimbap” style dish.

Soba Noodles

• Chewy buckwheat soba noodles tossed in a sesame-ginger dressing are a refreshing contrast to rich Korean beef. Add shredded carrots and cucumbers for extra crunch.

Spaghetti Squash

• A lighter swap for noodles or rice. Roast spaghetti squash and top with the beef for a satisfying low-carb meal.

Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes or crispy roasted potato wedges are easy starch sides. Alternately, try Korean-style braised potatoes.

Vegetable Dishes

Bright, fresh vegetable sides balance the rich umami flavors of Korean beef.

Kimchi

• No Korean meal is complete without some spicy, tangy kimchi. Its pickled flavors cut through the richness of the beef.

Stir-Fried Vegetables

• A stir-fry of broccoli, peppers, snap peas, and bok choy in sesame oil is a quick veggie option.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with savory beef. Toss them in sesame oil, fish sauce, and honey before roasting.

Cucumber Salad

• A cool cucumber salad with a splash of rice vinegar and sesame seeds refreshes the palate.

Bean Sprout Salad

• Crunchy bean sprouts dressed simply with salt, pepper, and sesame oil make a tasty banchan side dish.

Noodle Salads and Slaws

Chilled noodle salads and tangy slaws complement the Korean beef’s richness.

Cold Soba Noodle Salad

• Chilled soba noodles tossed in a peanut or sesame dressing offer great texture contrast. Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, and scallions.

Macaroni Salad

• A creamy, mayo-based macaroni salad with peas and carrots has classic picnic vibes.

Asian Slaw

• For crunch, make a slaw with napa cabbage, bell peppers, scallions, cilantro, and an Asian vinaigrette.

Sauces and Condiments

Don’t forget sauces and condiments to dress up your Korean beef!

Gochujang

• This fermented red chili paste adds a spicy, complex heat. Mix it with soy sauce as a dip for the beef.

Ssamjang

• A thicker, sweeter Korean sauce made of gochujang and fermented bean paste. Spread it on lettuce wraps.

Sesame Oil

• A drizzle of this aromatic, nutty oil enhances any Korean dish.

Soy Sauce

• Use as a simple tableside dip, or mix with garlic, ginger, and sugar for a quick sauce.

Kimchi Juice

• The tangy brine from kimchi makes a bold seasoning. Drizzle sparingly over rice or beef.

On the Lighter Side

For a lighter meal, try these healthy sides with your Korean beef.

Mixed Greens Salad

• Leafy greens, shredded carrots, cucumbers, and a light dressing keep things fresh.

Edamame

• Boiled and salted soybeans make a protein-packed accompaniment or snack.

Seaweed Salad

• Rehydrated sheets of seaweed offer vitamins and minerals. Toss in sesame oil and soy sauce.

Pickled Vegetables

• Quick-pickled carrots, cucumbers, or radishes in rice vinegar provide tangy crunch.

Miso Soup

• A classic light and comforting soup made with miso paste and dashi broth.

Hearty Favorites

On chilly days, warm up with these hearty sides for your Korean beef.

Charro Beans

• Southwestern-style beans with bacon and spices pair well with the beef’s savory flavors.

Meatballs

• Chicken, pork, or beef meatballs simmered in a Korean-style garlic-ginger sauce.

Dumplings

• Pan-fried or steamed pork or vegetable dumplings dipped in soy-vinegar sauce.

Chili

• A bowl of hearty beef chili with warm spices like ginger, sesame, and gochugaru.

Egg Rolls

• Crispy vegetable egg rolls dipped in a sweet chili sauce.