Rustic Mushroom Bulgogi Steaks

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 large portobello mushrooms (or king oyster mushrooms, sliced lengthwise into “steaks”)
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste, for a spicy kick)
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
• 1 tsp vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 scallion, finely chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
• Optional sides: Steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or kimchi

Instructions

1. Clean the Mushrooms:
   • Wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp paper towel and remove the stems if using portobellos. Use a paring knife to lightly score the tops of the mushrooms in a crisscross pattern (to help absorb the marinade).
2. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, gochujang, grated ginger, garlic, and sesame seeds.
3. Marinate the Mushrooms:
   • Place the mushrooms in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring they’re well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
4. Cook the Mushrooms:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear the mushrooms for 3–4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula to develop a golden-brown crust. If using thick mushroom slices, cook until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Caramelize the Onions:
   • In the same pan, add the sliced onion and cook until softened and golden, about 5 minutes. Add a spoonful of the leftover marinade to the onions for extra flavor.
6. Assemble and Serve:
   • Plate the mushroom “steaks” on a bed of rice or noodles. Top with the caramelized onions, sprinkle with chopped scallions, and garnish with extra sesame seeds. Serve alongside steamed vegetables or kimchi for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations:

• Add Smoky Flavor: Grill the mushrooms outdoors or on a stovetop grill for added depth.
• For Protein: Add a fried egg on top, or serve alongside grilled tofu or seitan for an extra boost.
• Texture Play: Mix in thinly sliced shiitake mushrooms for a chewy contrast.