The Art of Korean BBQ with Chef Bill Kim

Armed with a vision of serving Asian food that was accessible to all, Chef Bill Kim took Chicago by storm 15 years ago when he opened UrbanBelly. With the tagline ‘Dumplings, Booze, Bowls,’ UrbanBelly has grown into multiple locations that are still a big hit in the Windy City. Also an acclaimed author, Chef Kim shared his skills and tips on cooking Korean BBQ in the EVO Culinary Academy using a residential grill. 

Chef Bill Kim – UrbanBelly

Born in South Korea and raised in Chicago, Chef Bill Kim brings a unique perspective to the culinary world. Having worked with some of the biggest names in the industry after graduating from studying French cooking at Kendall College gave Kim his foundation in foodservice. And what he learned in food preparation and leadership in the kitchen translated into him opening UrbanBelly.

Always interested in serving noodles and dumplings using unique flavors and high-quality ingredients, Chef Kim left behind his career working for famed restaurateur Charlie Trotter and opened UrbanBelly in a strip mall in 2008. Its success and Chef Kim’s expert cooking abilities led him to write the James Beard nominated cookbook Korean BBQ: Master Your Grill in Seven Sauces. 

What Makes Korean BBQ Different?

When Americans think of BBQ, they may imagine meat grilled with a dry rub and served with or without sauce. BBQ in the U.S. also tends to use larger cuts of meat that are divided up after cooking. With Korean BBQ, like in the United States, pork is used. But the cuts of meat are much smaller and are also marinated before putting it on the grill. 

Korean BBQ also has a sweeter flavor profile thanks to the use of honey, soy sauce, and sometimes even fruit. And what’s a BBQ without sides? But don’t expect to see options like mac and cheese or potato salad. Instead, select from kimchi, rice, pickles, or veggies. 

The Versatility of EVO

How easy is it to prepare unique dishes at home for friends and family? With residential grills from EVO, roasting, steaming, smoking, and cooking are just steps away. The EVO circular flattop cooking surface allows for cooking almost any cuisine. The ability to sear, toast, stir-fry, and grill takes your backyard grilling to the next level. 

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