This Korean Beef Recipe features tender beef strips cooked in a tasty mix of soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness. It’s quick and packed with flavor!
Perfect for busy weeknights, I love serving it over rice or with noodles. It’s a hit at the dinner table, and I always make extra for leftovers. Yum! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want a vegetarian version, try using a meat substitute like lentils or plant-based ground meat.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor. You can swap it with honey or agave syrup for a different twist. For a low-carb option, consider using a sugar substitute.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce gives saltiness and depth. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos. For a low-sodium version, there’s low-sodium soy sauce too.
Sesame Oil: This oil gives a nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you could substitute with another oil, but it won’t have quite the same richness. Try using peanut oil or even olive oil.
Green Onions: These add freshness and a bit of crunch. You can use regular onions for a stronger flavor, but remember to use less since they are more potent.
How Do You Ensure the Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
The key to cooking ground beef is to break it apart while it browns. This ensures that it cooks evenly. Here’s how I did it:
- Heat the skillet to medium and add the beef, letting it sit for a moment before stirring.
- Use a spatula to break the meat into smaller pieces. This helps it brown nicely.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s no longer pink. Drain excess fat for a leaner dish.
Remember, don’t rush! Giving the beef time to brown lets the flavors develop nicely.
How to Make a Korean Beef Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Beef:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Korean Beef Bowl takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick 20-minute meal that’s perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Use a spatula to break the beef apart as it cooks until it’s nicely browned. If there’s extra grease, feel free to drain it out to keep your dish nice and lean.
2. Add Aromatics:
Stir in the minced garlic and ginger into the skillet with the beef. Sauté these for about a minute until you smell their wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Pour this delicious sauce over the browned beef in the skillet.
4. Combine and Simmer:
Stir everything well to coat the beef with that tasty sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the beef to soak up all those wonderful flavors.
5. Finish with Green Onions:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped green onions. They add a nice freshness to the dish!
6. Serve It Up:
To serve, scoop the savory beef over a generous portion of cooked white rice. Don’t forget to garnish with extra green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you want to add a little extra flair. Enjoy your tasty Korean Beef Bowl!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative. Just be aware that they may cook a bit quicker than beef, so keep an eye on them while browning and adjust cooking time as needed to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Can I Freeze the Korean Beef Bowl?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked beef mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving over fresh, cooked rice.
