Delicious Korean Ground Beef

This Korean ground beef bowl has become my go-to weeknight dinner when I need something delicious on the table in minutes. The savory-sweet sauce with hints of sesame and garlic transforms simple ground beef into something truly craveable, while the entire meal comes together faster than takeout could arrive.

I first made this recipe during a particularly hectic work week when I had almost no energy to cook. My family devoured it so enthusiastically that it's now in our regular rotation, requested at least twice a month by my usually picky eaters.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Provides the hearty protein base for this dish use 85% lean for the best flavor without excessive greasiness
• Sesame oil: Adds that distinctive nutty aroma that makes Korean dishes so irresistible
• Fresh garlic and ginger: Create an aromatic foundation look for firm ginger roots without wrinkles for the brightest flavor
• Low sodium soy sauce: Delivers savory umami depth without making the dish too salty
• Brown sugar: Balances the savory elements with just enough sweetness
• Sriracha: Brings customizable heat that you can adjust to your preference
• Green onions: Add a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor choose bunches with bright green tops
• Sesame seeds: Provide a beautiful garnish and subtle crunch toast them briefly for enhanced flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Beef:

Heat your sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers slightly. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon into small crumbles. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is no longer pink and has developed some brown caramelized bits. If there's excessive fat, tilt the pan and spoon it off or drain in a colander for a lighter dish.

Add Aromatics:

Reduce heat to medium-low and add your minced garlic and ginger directly to the cooked beef. Stir continuously for about one minute until you can smell the aromatics releasing their fragrance. Be careful not to let the garlic brown or it will become bitter.

Create the Sauce:

Pour in the soy sauce and add brown sugar, sriracha, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the meat. The sauce should look glossy but not soupy.

Assemble Your Bowls:

Spoon fluffy rice into serving bowls, creating a bed for the beef. Top with generous portions of the saucy ground beef mixture. Scatter sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top. If using steamed vegetables, arrange them alongside or on top of the beef.

The sesame oil is truly my favorite ingredient in this recipe. I first discovered its transformative power when living in Seoul for a semester abroad. Just a tablespoon creates that authentic Korean flavor that transports me back to the tiny neighborhood restaurants where I fell in love with this cuisine.

Make It Your Own

This Korean beef bowl welcomes customization based on your preferences and what you have available. Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully as a lighter alternative to beef. If using poultry, add an extra teaspoon of oil to compensate for the lower fat content. For a vegetarian version, crumbled extra-firm tofu or tempeh can substitute for meat, though you might want to increase the seasonings slightly.

Storage and Meal Prep

The beef mixture keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Store the meat separate from rice for best results. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own over rice, this versatile beef can be served in multiple ways. Try it in lettuce wraps using butter lettuce or romaine for a low-carb option. It also makes an excellent filling for steamed bao buns or even as a topping for Korean fusion tacos. For a complete meal, serve alongside quick pickled vegetables the acidic brightness perfectly complements the rich beef.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Adjust seasoning accordingly for flavor.

→ Can I make this dish low-carb?

Absolutely! Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.

→ How spicy is the dish?

The spice level is mild but customizable. Add more sriracha or red pepper flakes if you prefer extra heat.

→ What vegetables pair well with this dish?

Steamed broccoli, carrots, or snap peas complement the dish perfectly. You can also add cucumbers or shredded carrots for crunch.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

→ Can I add other toppings?

Yes, shredded carrots, chopped cucumbers, or a fried egg make excellent toppings for added flavor and texture.