Galbitang 갈비탕, or Korean Beef Short Rib Soup, is a clear and deeply comforting soup made by slow-simmering beef short ribs with Korean radish, garlic, and aromatic vegetables. This healing dish is low on spice but rich in savory, nourishing flavor—perfect for cozy nights, recovery days, or simply when you crave something warm and satisfying. It’s a classic Korean comfort food that feels as soothing as a hug.
A Clear Soup with Quiet Power
Unlike many Korean dishes that are spicy or fermented, Galbitang is refreshingly mild. Its clean broth is deceptively simple in appearance but layered with deep umami thanks to the beef bones, daikon, and careful simmering. No chili paste, no bold seasonings—just honest, slow-cooked flavor. It’s the kind of soup you eat when you're under the weather or just want something that warms you from the inside out.
My Galbitang Journey (Thanks, K-Drama)
Like many people, I first noticed Galbitang in K-dramas. There’s always that heartfelt moment when someone is sick or stressed, and someone else lovingly brings them a bowl of steaming soup. The short ribs always looked so tender, the broth so clear—I thought for sure it was complicated to make. But one day, curiosity got the better of me.
I checked a few recipes and realized... it’s not hard at all! Just a bit of patience and good ingredients. So I gave it a go—and wow. The result was rich, restorative, and every bit as comforting as the drama made it look. It’s now a staple in my kitchen whenever I want something wholesome and quietly impressive.
Ingredients Breakdown: Simple, Honest, Flavorful
To make Galbitang, you don’t need anything fancy - just a bit of time and care. Here’s what goes into it:
- Beef short ribs – The star of the show. Choose meaty ribs with a bit of fat.
- White radish – Adds subtle sweetness and soaks up all the flavor.
- Brown onion & leeks – For depth and aroma.
- Garlic & ginger – The foundation of healing and warmth.
- Rock sugar – Just a touch for balance.
- Fish sauce, soy sauce – Umami-rich seasoning.
- Sesame oil & sesame seeds – For nutty fragrance.
- Egg – Optional garnish, but it adds a silky texture.
- Korean glass noodles – Optional but makes it a heartier meal.
- Pepper – A little heat, no spice.
You’ll boil the ribs once to remove impurities, then simmer them low and slow with all the good stuff. The result? A clear, comforting broth with melt-in-your-mouth beef.
Bonus: Fun Galbitang Facts
- "Galbi" means ribs, and "Tang" means soup—so Galbitang literally means "rib soup."
- It’s often eaten for strength and recovery, especially after exams or during illness.
- Hwangap (60th birthdays) often feature Galbitang as a prestigious, nourishing dish.
- Despite being made with fatty cuts, the broth is crystal clear, thanks to skimming and long simmering.
- It’s one of Korea’s beloved celebration and comfort foods, also found at weddings and formal meals.
Ready to Try Galbitang?
Galbitang might not be as flashy as kimchi jjigae or bulgogi, but it holds a special place in Korean cuisine—and in my heart. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t just feed you; it restores you. Whether you're new to Korean food or already a fan, this slow-simmered soup is one you'll come back to again and again.
