1. Prepare the Beef

Start by preparing your beef. If you’re using a beef chuck roast, trim any excess fat and cut it into 2-inch pieces. This will allow the beef to cook more evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce. If you’re using flank steak, simply slice it into thin strips against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Once your beef is prepared, place it in the slow cooker.

2. Make the Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and gochujang (or sriracha, if you prefer a spicy kick). This mixture will create a flavorful sauce that will slowly cook into the beef as it simmers in the slow cooker. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or spiciness to your liking—if you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar; if you like it spicier, add more gochujang or sriracha.

Once the sauce is mixed, pour it evenly over the beef in the slow cooker.

3. Cook the Beef

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. The beef will cook slowly and become tender as it absorbs all the delicious sauce flavors. You don’t need to stir it during the cooking process, as the beef will release juices that will combine with the sauce to create a rich, savory gravy.

After the cooking time is up, check the beef for tenderness. It should be fork-tender, easily shreddable, and fully infused with the flavors of the sauce.

4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the slurry into the sauce, cover the slow cooker, and continue cooking on low for the remaining time. The sauce will thicken as it cooks.

If you like a thinner sauce, feel free to skip this step and use the sauce as is. The natural juices from the beef will help create a flavorful, savory broth.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once the beef is cooked and tender, it’s time to serve. Use a fork to shred the beef in the slow cooker, mixing it with the sauce to ensure it’s fully coated. Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for added texture and flavor.

Slow Cooker Korean Beef is delicious when served over steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative. The beef can be paired with vegetables, like sautéed bok choy, broccoli, or carrots, to create a well-rounded meal.