This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is packed with flavor and super easy to make! It features tasty ground beef, sweet soy sauce, and fresh veggies, all served over fluffy rice.
I love how quickly it all comes together. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something yummy without all the fuss. Plus, leftovers taste even better! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using 80/20 ground beef for its perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider ground turkey or chicken. However, the texture will be different, so keep that in mind!
Soy Sauce: This is vital for the dish’s flavor. If you’re keeping an eye on sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. Tamari also works and is gluten-free, making it a great substitute.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a nice depth of sweetness. If you prefer less sugar, you could try coconut sugar or even honey; just note that it will slightly change the flavor profile.
Sesame Oil: This gives a beautiful nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, consider using olive oil, although the taste will differ. Toasted sesame oil is preferred for an extra flavor kick!
Rice: While I stick to short-grain or jasmine rice for a stickier texture, any cooked rice works well, including brown or cauliflower rice for a lower carb option.
How Can You Ensure the Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground beef evenly is key! Start by using a large skillet over medium-high heat. Don’t crowd the pan. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Break the beef apart with a spoon as it cooks. This helps it brown nicely.
- Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If any fat accumulates, drain it off before adding your sauce to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
These steps will result in flavorful, nicely textured beef ready to soak up that delicious sauce!
How to Make a Delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (short-grain or jasmine)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted, for garnish)
- Optional: sliced cucumber or carrots for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. In just 25 minutes, you’ll be ready to enjoy a tasty Korean Ground Beef Bowl!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Sauce:
Start by making a flavorful sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed and set aside for later.
2. Cook the Beef:
Next, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef into the skillet. Using a spoon, break the beef apart as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and fully cooked. If there’s extra fat, carefully drain it off.
3. Combine Beef with Sauce:
Now it’s time to flavor the beef! Pour your prepared sauce over the cooked beef in the skillet. Stir it well to coat all the beef pieces evenly. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit and the flavors meld together nicely.
4. Prepare the Rice:
While the beef is cooking, prepare your rice if you haven’t done so already. Follow the package instructions to cook 2 cups of white rice. Make sure it’s ready to go when you serve!
5. Serve:
To serve your dish, divide the cooked rice among your bowls. Then, spoon the Korean ground beef mixture on top of the rice in each bowl.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Lastly, sprinkle the chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds over each bowl for extra flavor and crunch. If you’d like, add some fresh sliced cucumbers or carrots on the side. Now dig in and enjoy your hot and delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ slightly depending on the type of meat you use. If using leaner meats, you might want to add a little more sesame oil for added flavor and moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can use tamari or coconut aminos as a great soy sauce alternative. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium version, they also offer low-sodium soy sauce options that work well in this recipe while still providing a savory flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep the rice from getting too dry. Enjoy it as a quick lunch or dinner!
