Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe

Introduction

The Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the bold, savory, and slightly sweet flavors of Korean cuisine to your table in a matter of minutes. With tender ground beef cooked in a deliciously seasoned sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and garlic, this dish offers a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of rich flavors and simple ingredients makes it an easy yet impressive dinner option that will quickly become a favorite in your household.

This Korean-inspired dish is a one-bowl meal, making it both convenient and delicious. Served over a bed of steamed rice, the savory beef mixture is topped with fresh vegetables like green onions and sesame seeds, adding extra layers of texture and flavor. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner or a quick lunch, the Korean Ground Beef Bowl delivers a comforting and mouthwatering meal that’s sure to please.

Why You’ll Love Korean Ground Beef Bowls

• Flavorful and Savory: The soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar create a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that pair beautifully with the tender ground beef.
• Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy nights when you’re craving something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
• Customizable: The recipe is versatile and can be adjusted based on your preferences. You can add your favorite vegetables, adjust the sweetness, or make it spicier with additional chili paste or sriracha.
• One-Bowl Meal: Everything comes together in one bowl, with the beef mixture and rice serving as the base, and fresh toppings providing a burst of flavor and crunch.
• Healthy and Nutritious: With lean ground beef, a variety of vegetables, and whole grains (if you serve it over brown rice), this meal is both filling and nutritious, making it a balanced dinner choice.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on the choice of meat and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 8-10g

Ingredients

For the Korean Ground Beef:

• 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean, such as 90% lean)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for additional spice)

For Serving:

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Optional toppings: shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, pickled vegetables, or a fried egg

Special Equipment

While making the Korean Ground Beef Bowl doesn’t require specialized tools, there are a few pieces of equipment that will help ensure smooth preparation and better results:

1. Large Skillet or Wok: A large skillet or wok is ideal for cooking the ground beef and allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken. The wide surface helps evenly cook the beef and ensures the sauce coats every piece of meat.
2. Rice Cooker or Pot: A rice cooker makes cooking rice effortless, but you can also use a pot to cook the rice. Fresh, hot rice is the perfect base for this dish.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are important when creating the sauce for the beef. Using proper measuring cups and spoons ensures that you get the right balance of flavors.
4. Chopping Knife: A sharp knife is essential for chopping vegetables like green onions, garlic, and ginger. A good knife helps make prep work quick and easy.
5. Serving Bowls: Individual bowls are ideal for serving the Korean Ground Beef Bowls. You can serve each portion with rice and all the toppings neatly arranged for a beautiful presentation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice

Start by cooking your rice. You can use white rice or brown rice, depending on your preference. If you’re using a rice cooker, simply follow the instructions on the package for cooking the rice. Alternatively, bring water to a boil in a pot, then add the rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

While the rice is cooking, heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

3. Add the Garlic and Ginger

Once the beef is cooked, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir well to combine, allowing the garlic and ginger to cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. These ingredients will add depth of flavor to the beef mixture.

4. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, chili paste or sriracha (if using), black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce ingredients are well combined.

5. Combine the Beef and Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked beef in the skillet. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.

6. Assemble the Bowls

To assemble the Korean Ground Beef Bowls, start by placing a generous scoop of cooked rice in the bottom of each serving bowl. Spoon the seasoned ground beef mixture over the rice, ensuring that each bowl is well-balanced.

7. Add the Toppings

Top each bowl with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and any additional toppings you prefer. Shredded carrots, cucumber slices, pickled vegetables, or a fried egg are all great options for adding extra texture and flavor to your bowl. Serve immediately while the beef and rice are hot.

Tips for Perfect Korean Ground Beef Bowls

• Use Lean Ground Beef: For a healthier version of this dish, opt for lean ground beef (such as 90% lean) to reduce the fat content. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Adjust the Heat: The chili paste or sriracha adds heat to the dish. Adjust the amount according to your personal spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder version, you can leave out the chili paste or use less.
• Add Vegetables: To boost the nutritional value of the dish, consider adding extra vegetables to the beef mixture, such as bell peppers, spinach, or bok choy. You can also serve the beef mixture with a side of stir-fried vegetables for added texture.
• Make the Sauce Your Own: The sauce for this dish is highly customizable. You can increase or decrease the amount of brown sugar for a sweeter or less sweet flavor, or add more soy sauce for extra saltiness.
• Serve with a Fried Egg: For an extra indulgent touch, top the Korean Ground Beef Bowl with a fried egg. The runny yolk adds richness and complements the savory flavors of the beef.

Variations of Korean Ground Beef Bowls

• Vegetarian Korean Bowl: Use crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat as a substitute for ground beef to make a vegetarian version of this dish. The sauce will still provide all the flavors, and you can add extra veggies for texture.
• Spicy Kimchi Korean Beef Bowl: Add a spoonful of kimchi to the bowl for a tangy, spicy kick. The fermentation of kimchi pairs wonderfully with the sweet-savory beef, adding extra layers of flavor.
• Korean BBQ Ground Beef Bowl: For a more authentic Korean BBQ flavor, marinate the ground beef in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sugar before cooking. This will infuse the beef with even more complex flavors.
• Korean Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps: If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, serve the ground beef mixture in large lettuce leaves instead of rice. This makes for a fresh and light way to enjoy the dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Korean Ground Beef Bowls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the beef and rice separately in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent the rice from drying out.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked beef mixture. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen ground beef can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the mixture in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Korean Ground Beef Bowls

Pair your Korean Ground Beef Bowl with complementary sides to create a well-rounded meal:

• Kimchi: The spicy, tangy flavors of kimchi make the perfect side dish to complement the savory ground beef. It adds a nice balance of flavors and texture.
• Korean Pancakes (Pajeon): Serve the beef bowls with savory Korean pancakes made with scallions and vegetables. These crispy, chewy pancakes are a delicious side dish to enjoy with the beef.
• Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed vegetables like broccoli, bok choy, or zucchini provide a healthy contrast to the richness of the beef.
• Miso Soup: A bowl of miso soup on the side adds a warm, comforting element to the meal, making it a satisfying and filling dinner.

Print

Conclusion

Korean Ground Beef Bowls are an easy, flavorful, and versatile dish that combines savory ground beef with a sweet and spicy sauce, all served over a bed of rice. With a variety of options for customization and quick preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or simply looking for a delicious and hearty meal, the Korean Ground Beef Bowl will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the bold, rich flavors of this simple yet satisfying meal that’s packed with taste and made with just a few ingredients!