Korean Beef Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Korean Beef Bowl is an irresistible fusion of flavors, featuring tender ground beef cooked in a savory-sweet sauce with hints of garlic and ginger. The richness of the beef combined with the tangy-sweet sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors, while the vegetables and rice provide a hearty base. This recipe is quick, easy to make, and perfect for those who enjoy bold and flavorful dishes without a lot of fuss. Whether you’re making it for yourself or your family, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste, optional for heat)

• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (for serving)

• 1 cup sliced cucumber, for garnish

• 1/2 cup shredded carrots, for garnish

• 1/2 cup kimchi (optional, for added flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.

2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).

3. Drain any excess fat, then add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and gochujang (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly.

5. Remove from heat and stir in the sesame seeds.

6. To assemble the bowls, serve the Korean beef mixture over the cooked rice.

7. Top with sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, green onions, and a side of kimchi (if desired).

8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Use different protein: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a variation.

• Add vegetables: Feel free to add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra texture and nutrition.

• Make it spicier: Add extra gochujang or sprinkle some red pepper flakes to kick up the heat.

• Top with a fried egg: For extra richness, top each bowl with a fried egg for added protein and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooked Korean beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the beef in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Reheat the rice separately to keep everything fresh.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative like ground soy or lentils.

2. Can I make this recipe without gochujang?

Yes, if you don’t have gochujang, you can substitute with a little sriracha or chili paste, or simply skip it for a less spicy version.

3. Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa would work great as a base for the Korean Beef Bowl.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) or a gluten-free alternative to gochujang.

5. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, the beef mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

7. How do I store leftovers?

Store the beef and rice in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

8. What can I use instead of sesame oil?

If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use vegetable oil, olive oil, or another mild-flavored oil, although sesame oil adds a distinct flavor to the dish.

9. Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes, you can adjust the heat by adding more gochujang or including additional chili flakes or hot sauce to suit your taste.

10. Can I add a fried egg to this dish?

Yes, a fried egg makes a great addition to this bowl, adding richness and protein. Simply fry an egg and place it on top of the beef mixture when serving.

Conclusion

The Korean Beef Bowl is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. With its savory-sweet sauce, tender beef, and crunchy veggie toppings, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or just looking for a fun new meal to try, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With endless customization options and a simple cooking process, you can enjoy a taste of Korea in the comfort of your own home.

Korean Beef Bowl

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• Author: Ava
• Total Time: 25min
• Yield: 4servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

The Korean Beef Bowl is a savory and slightly sweet dish featuring ground beef seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and gochujang. Served over rice and topped with fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrots, and optional kimchi, this quick and easy meal brings the bold flavors of Korean cuisine to your table in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner!

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Ingredients

For the Beef:

1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste, optional for heat)

1 teaspoon sesame seeds

1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving:

2 cups cooked white or brown rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb option)

1 cup sliced cucumber, for garnish

1/2 cup shredded carrots, for garnish

1/2 cup kimchi (optional, for added flavor)

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Instructions

• Cook the Ground Beef:

  • Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned (about 6-8 minutes).

  • Drain excess fat and stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

• Add the Sauce:

  • Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and gochujang (if using).

  • Cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce simmer and thicken slightly.

• Finish the Dish:

  • Remove from heat and stir in sesame seeds.

• Assemble the Bowl:

  • Serve the beef mixture over a bed of cooked rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb).

  • Top with sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, green onions, and a side of kimchi (optional).

• Serve:

  • Enjoy immediately with lime wedges, if desired.

Notes

• Protein Substitutes: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles as alternatives to beef.

• Spicy Kick: Adjust the heat level with more gochujang or red pepper flakes.

• Toppings: Add a fried egg on top for extra richness and protein.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with mushrooms or tempeh for a plant-based version.

• Prep Time: 10min
• Cook Time: 15min
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Korean-inspired