Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Make this Korean Ground Beef Bowl in just 15 minutes! A quick, flavorful, and budget-friendly meal with a savory-sweet glaze. Perfect for weeknights!
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef – Use 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and texture. Leaner beef works too but you may need a splash of oil for extra moisture.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Adds rich nutty depth that’s key to Korean flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic minced – Fresh garlic brings the best aromatic punch.
- 1- inch piece ginger grated – Fresh ginger enhances the warmth and depth of the dish.
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce – Provides deep umami flavor without overpowering saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Balances the savory elements with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon gochujang optional – This Korean chili paste adds a spicy, slightly smoky kick.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adjust based on your heat preference.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Brightens up the sauce with a touch of acidity.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water – Helps create a glossy thick sauce that clings to the beef.
For Serving:
- 2 cups steamed white rice – Jasmine or short-grain rice works best but brown rice is a great alternative.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds – Adds crunch and a rich nutty contrast.
- 2 green onions sliced – Fresh and slightly sharp, these bring balance to the dish.
- ½ cup shredded carrots optional – Adds a hint of sweetness and crunch.
- ½ cup sautéed bok choy optional – A great way to incorporate more greens.
Ingredient Tips & Substitutions
- No gochujang? Swap it for sriracha or a mix of red pepper flakes and soy sauce.
- Need a low-carb option? Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
- Want a vegetarian version? Swap ground beef for crumbled tofu or plant-based meat.
- Prefer a richer sauce? Add a teaspoon of oyster sauce for extra depth.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by gathering and prepping your ingredients:
- Dice garlic and grate fresh ginger for a bold, aromatic base.
- Measure out your soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and gochujang for the sauce.
- Have your ground beef ready to go and set your rice to steam while you cook.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and slightly crispy. If there's excess grease, carefully drain it for a cleaner flavor.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
- Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the garlic and ginger. Let them cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant. This step deepens the flavor and sets the foundation for the dish.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you like your sauce thicker, mix in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet with the beef, stirring to coat evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the beef beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
- To assemble, spoon the cooked beef mixture over a bed of steamed rice.
- Add your favorite toppings: sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, shredded carrots, or sautéed bok choy for added freshness and crunch.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the bowls immediately while warm. For extra heat, drizzle with a bit of sriracha or more gochujang. Pair it with a side of kimchi or cucumber salad to complete the meal.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 680mg