koreaarmychef

[koreaarmychef]

Korea Army Chef's Galbitang Recipe Revealed

Galbitang, or Korean beef short rib soup, is a dish where the depth of the broth and the tenderness of the ribs come together harmoniously. On the day it was chosen as the menu for the troops, I knew it would be a challenging task requiring patience and precision.

The first hurdle was preparing the ribs. Defrosting and soaking them to remove excess blood seemed straightforward, but the sheer volume for over 50 servings made it a marathon. I placed the ribs into large basins, repeatedly changing the water until it ran clear. Only then were the ribs ready to go into the massive military pots.

The next challenge was making the broth. The pot was filled with water, beef ribs, radish, green onions, garlic, and ginger, then set to boil for hours. Managing the heat was critical—too high, and the broth could become cloudy; too low, and the ribs wouldn’t cook properly. I stood by the pot, carefully skimming off the fat and impurities that rose to the surface to ensure the broth remained clean and flavorful. This repetitive task left my wrist aching but was essential for achieving the perfect broth.

When the ribs had softened to just the right tenderness, I seasoned the broth with salt and soy sauce. This was the most nerve-wracking moment. The balance of flavors had to be just right—neither too salty nor too bland. Finally, I added finely chopped green onions for a fresh finish and let the soup simmer a little longer.

As the galbitang was served in the dining hall, the troops' reactions made all the effort worthwhile. “This broth is incredible!” one soldier exclaimed. “The ribs are so tender,” another added. Their satisfaction was a reminder of why attention to detail matters.

Galbitang is more than just a hearty soup; it’s a dish that embodies dedication and precision. From soaking the ribs to carefully managing the heat, every step required patience and focus. By the end of the day, I realized that making galbitang isn’t just about cooking—it’s about creating a meal that reflects effort, care, and the art of perseverance.