Korean BBQ Beef Lettuce Wraps

If you love bold flavors and fresh, vibrant textures, Korean BBQ Beef Lettuce Wraps are your new go-to meal. This dish perfectly balances savory, sweet, and spicy notes with the crispness of fresh vegetables and cool lettuce leaves. Using thinly sliced beef flank steak marinated in a rich combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and the fiery kick of Gochujang, these wraps deliver authentic Korean-inspired flavor in a quick, easy, and healthy package. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a light dinner, these wraps bring fun and flavor to your table without fuss or complicated prep.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic behind these Korean BBQ Beef Lettuce Wraps lies in the marinade and the balance of textures. Marinating the beef flank steak allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, yielding tender, juicy bites packed with umami from soy sauce and a subtle sweetness from brown sugar. The sesame oil and seeds add that signature nutty, aromatic finish, while minced garlic and fresh ginger boost the savory depth. Gochujang, a Korean chili paste, lends just the right amount of heat and complexity without overwhelming the palate.

Wrapping the beef and crisp julienned cucumbers and carrots in buttery lettuce leaves keeps every bite fresh and light, while the fresh cilantro and chopped green onions add herbal brightness and crunch. Plus, these wraps are naturally gluten-friendly if you choose tamari over soy sauce, and they’re quick enough for weeknight meals but impressive enough for entertaining.

Whether you’re a fan of Beef Chops With Grilled Peaches or love exploring Asian flavors in your kitchen, this recipe fits seamlessly into your culinary rotation.

Shopping List

• 1 lb beef flank steak, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 head of butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• 1 carrot, julienned
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Green onions, chopped, for garnish

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Sharp knife – for thinly slicing the beef and julienning vegetables
• Mixing bowl – to prepare the marinade
• Skillet or grill pan – for cooking the beef quickly and evenly
• Tongs or spatula – to turn the beef slices without tearing
• Measuring spoons – for precise marinade ingredients
• Serving platter – to arrange your lettuce leaves and fillings beautifully

Build Korean BBQ Beef Lettuce Wraps Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and Gochujang. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely and the marinade is smooth and fragrant.

Step 2: Marinate the Beef

Add the thinly sliced beef flank steak to the marinade, tossing to coat every piece. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 1-2 hours, to maximize flavor and tenderness.

Step 3: Prep the Vegetables

While the beef marinates, wash and separate the lettuce leaves. Julienne the cucumber and carrot into thin matchstick-sized strips. Set aside fresh cilantro and chop green onions for garnish.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.

Step 5: Toast the Sesame Seeds

In a dry pan over low heat, toast the sesame seeds until golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. This boosts their nutty flavor and adds a crunchy texture.

Step 6: Assemble the Wraps

Lay a lettuce leaf flat on your plate. Add a few slices of cooked beef, then top with julienned cucumber, carrot, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro leaves, and chopped green onions. Roll or fold the lettuce around the filling and enjoy immediately.

For a refreshing side that pairs perfectly with these wraps, consider serving an Asian Cucumber Salad to keep the meal light and crisp.

Year-Round Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add extra Gochujang or a drizzle of Sriracha for those who love more heat.
• Vegan Twist: Swap beef for marinated and grilled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
• Crunch Factor: Add crushed peanuts or toasted cashews for an additional texture layer.
• Salad Style: Turn the wraps into a bowl by layering all ingredients over Grilled Romaine Salad With Caesar Dressing instead of lettuce leaves.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Overcooking the beef can make it tough; cook quickly over high heat for best results.
• Don’t skip marinating — it’s key to tender, flavorful beef.
• Avoid watery lettuce by drying leaves well after washing to prevent sogginess.
• Use fresh ginger and garlic rather than powders for authentic depth.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the cooked beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce and vegetables separate in another container or bag to maintain their crispness. Reheat the beef gently in a skillet or microwave and assemble fresh wraps just before serving.

Reader Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef for these wraps?

Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its flavor and texture, skirt steak or sirloin thinly sliced can also work beautifully. Just be sure to slice against the grain for tenderness.

Is there a substitute for Gochujang if I can’t find it?

If Gochujang isn’t accessible, try mixing a bit of chili paste with a touch of miso paste or soy sauce to mimic its sweet-spicy-umami profile. It won’t be exactly the same but will still add a nice kick.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?

Yes! Marinate and cook the beef in advance and store it separately. Prep the veggies and lettuce leaves too. Assemble wraps right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

What’s the best way to julienne the vegetables quickly?

Use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to cut the cucumber and carrot into thin, even matchsticks. This helps ensure each bite has a perfect crunch and looks beautiful on the plate.

Weekend Projects

• Beef Chops With Grilled Peaches – Try this juicy grilled beef recipe with a sweet fruit twist.
• Asian Cucumber Salad – Brighten your meal with a crisp and tangy cucumber salad.
• Grilled Romaine Salad With Caesar Dressing – Add smoky depth to your greens with this grilled salad.

See You at the Table

Korean BBQ Beef Lettuce Wraps are an irresistible way to bring fresh, bold flavors into your kitchen. Every bite is a harmonious blend of juicy, spicy beef and crisp vegetables wrapped in cool, tender lettuce. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, this recipe invites you to gather, wrap, and enjoy. So, grab your skillet, prep your ingredients, and get ready for a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Happy wrapping!

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