Yakiniku vs Korean BBQ – Differences and Similarities

Yakiniku vs Korean BBQ are two popular types of grilled meat that originated in East Asia. Both dishes involve cooking thinly sliced meat over a grill, but there are some key differences between the two.

Yakiniku is a Japanese word that translates to “grilled meat.” The dish originated in Japan in the early 20th century, and it quickly became popular throughout the country. 

Korean BBQ originated in Korea and it’s similar to yakiniku, but it typically features more marinated meat. 

Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of BBQ you prefer is to try both! Here’s a detailed comparison of yakiniku vs. Korean BBQ, so you can get to know each style of cooking really well. 

What Is Yakiniku?

Yakiniku is a Japanese type of barbecue where thinly sliced meat is grilled at the table. Yakiniku is typically made with a variety of meats, including beef, pork, chicken, lamb, and even offal.

The bite-sized pieces of meat are often marinated in a sauce made with soy sauce, mirin, and garlic.

Yakiniku is a popular social dish, from the Japanese cuisine, meant to be enjoyed with friends and family. Diners typically grill the meat themselves, which allows them to cook the meat to their liking.

Yakiniku restaurants often served the food with a variety of side dishes, such as rice, kimchi, and salad.

Here are some of the key features of yakiniku:

• Thinly sliced meat: Yakiniku is made with thinly sliced seasoned meat, which allows the meat to cook quickly and evenly.
• Marinated meat: Yakiniku can be marinated in a variety of sauces, but the most common marinade is a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, and garlic.
• Grilled at the table: Yakiniku is typically grilled at the table, which allows diners to cook the meat to their liking.
• Served with side dishes: Yakiniku is often served with a variety of side dishes, such as rice, kimchi, and salad.

What Is Korean BBQ?

Korean BBQ, also known as “gogigui”, is a type of barbecue that originated in Korea. It is similar to yakiniku, which also involves grilling thinly sliced meat at the table.

However, Korean barbecue typically features more marinated meat and a wider variety of side dishes.

The most common type of meat used in Korean BBQ is beef, but pork, chicken, and lamb are also popular. The meat is often marinated in a sweet and savory sauce that includes ingredients such as soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). 

The meat is then grilled at the table, and diners typically wrap it in lettuce leaves or other vegetables before eating it.

Korean BBQ is often served with a variety of side dishes, such as pajeori, kimchi, rice, and banchan (small dishes). 

Here are some of the key features of Korean BBQ:

• Marinated meat: Korean BBQ typically features more marinated meat than yakiniku. The marinade adds flavor and tenderness to the meat.
• Wide variety of side dishes: Korean BBQ is often served with a wide variety of side dishes, such as kimchi, rice, and banchan. These side dishes help to balance out the richness of the meat.
• Social dish: Korean BBQ is a social dish that is meant to be enjoyed with friends and family. Diners typically grill the meat themselves.

The Differences Between Yakiniku and Korean BBQ

While some people might think that yaniniku and Korean BBQ are Siamese twins, culinary experts often point out four main differences: 

Meat

One of the biggest differences between yakiniku and Korean BBQ is the type of meat that is used. Yakiniku typically uses a wider variety of meats, including beef, pork, chicken, lamb, and even offal. Korean BBQ, on the other hand, typically focuses on beef, pork, and chicken.

Marination

Another difference between yakiniku and Korean BBQ is the use of marinades. Yakiniku is typically not marinated, while Korean BBQ is often marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. This marinade can add a lot of flavor to the meat, but it can also make the meat more tender.

Dipping Sauces

Yakiniku and Korean BBQ are typically served with a variety of dipping sauces. However, the most common dipping sauces for each dish are different. 

Yakiniku is typically dipped in a sauce made with soy sauce, mirin, and garlic. Korean BBQ, on the other hand, is often dipped in a sauce made with gochujang, a Korean chili paste.

Serving Style

Yakiniku and Korean BBQ are also served in different ways. Yakiniku is typically served on a grill at the table. Korean BBQ, on the other hand, is typically served cooked, and diners often wrap the meat in lettuce leaves or other vegetables.

The Similarities Between Yakiniku vs Korean BBQ?

Despite their differences, yakiniku and Korean BBQ do have some similarities. 

Both dishes are grilled over a hot fire, and both are typically served with a variety of side dishes, such as rice, kimchi, and salad. Both dishes are also social dishes, meant to be enjoyed with friends and family.

Which Is better?

So, which type of BBQ is better? 

It depends on your personal preferences! If you like a variety of meats and a more simple flavor profile, then yakiniku is a good choice. If you like marinated meat and a more flavorful experience, then Korean BBQ is a good choice.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of BBQ you prefer is to try both!

Here is a table summarizing the differences and similarities between yakiniku and Korean BBQ:

Conclusion

So, which type of BBQ is better? It depends on your personal preferences! If you like a variety of meats and a simpler flavor profile, then yakiniku is a good choice. If you like marinated meat and a more flavorful experience, then Korean BBQ is a good choice.

Both yakiniku and Korean BBQ are social dishes, meant to be enjoyed with friends and family. So gather your loved ones and enjoy a delicious meal together.

For a superlative culinary experience; Choose the right meat, cook the meat to your liking, and use the right dipping sauces.

Finally, relish the experience: Yakiniku and Korean BBQ are meant to be enjoyed. So relax, have fun, and savor the amazing Asian flavors!