Korean Beef Bowls

If you’re looking for a dish bursting with robust flavors without extensive prep time, these Korean Beef Bowls are perfect for you! Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal features caramelized ground beef paired with a delightful hint of sweetness and spice, all finished off with quick-pickled vegetables that provide the ultimate crunch. Ideal for meal prepping or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to please everyone at your table!

Jump to:

• Korean Beef Bowls
• Table of Contents
• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• How to Make Korean Beef Bowls
• Meal Prep and Storage
• FAQs
• What to Serve with Korean Beef
• More Asian Recipes
• More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

Table of Contents

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• How to Make Korean Beef Bowls
• Meal Prep and Storage
• FAQs
• What to Serve with Korean Beef
• More Asian Recipes
• Korean Beef Bowls

The first time I experienced Korean beef at a local eatery, I instantly fell in love! The blend of sweetness, spice, and that mouthwatering umami flavor overwhelmed my taste buds. The key? A dash of sugar helps caramelize the beef, yielding a deep, rich flavor.

While traditional Korean bulgogi is fantastic, I often crave something quick and uncomplicated for those busy weeknights. That’s where this Korean Ground Beef Bowl comes in. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s almost as flavorful as the original version, minus the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Dinner: It’s ready in under 30 minutes.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Ideal for batch cooking.
• Weeknight Easy: Uses pantry staples.
• Family Favorite: Customizable to suit picky eaters.
• Elevate Your Dish: Add homemade quick-pickled veggies for a delightful twist.

And don’t forget to serve it with a generous portion of jasmine or white rice to round out your meal!

Ingredients

Please refer to the recipe card at the end for precise measurements.

• Ground Beef: Choose 85/15 lean ground beef for a great balance of flavor and fat. Ground turkey or chicken can be used, though the flavor will differ.
• Sesame Oil: Use toasted sesame oil for an additional umami kick—this ingredient is a must!
• Garlic: Minced garlic is crucial here. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be a substitute.
• Green Onions: Separate into whites and greens.
• Soy Sauce: Regular or low-sodium soy sauce works well, as does Tamari or coconut aminos.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger is preferable, but ginger paste is convenient.
• Sugar: Any kind of sugar—brown, white, or coconut—will do nicely.
• Rice Vinegar: Brings authentic flavor; feel free to substitute with apple cider or red wine vinegar.
• Toppings: Fresh veggies like broccoli or carrots can be used, or opt for pickled carrots and cucumbers for a tangy touch. For spice lovers, don’t forget a hearty scoop of gochujang to kick it up a notch!

Note: Adjust the spice level based on your topping choices.

How to Make Korean Beef Bowls

Check the recipe card for detailed ingredient amounts and printable steps.

Step 1: Cook the beef. Heat a skillet over medium heat, then add a tablespoon of oil along with the ground beef. Cook until mostly browned, then push the meat to one side of the skillet with a spatula or wooden spoon.

Step 2: Incorporate green onion and garlic. Drizzle in another tablespoon of oil and add the white parts of the green onions, garlic, and ginger. Continue cooking for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Pour this sauce over the beef and vegetables, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer over medium-low heat for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 4: Finish and serve. Mix in the green parts of the onions and cook for another minute. To serve, add a portion of rice to a bowl, top with the cooked beef, then sprinkle with pickled vegetables along with toasted sesame seeds and gochujang, if desired. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or serve the tasty ground beef in lettuce wraps.

Meal Prep and Storage

• Prep-ahead: Consider making the pickled carrots and cucumbers in advance. The sauce can also be prepped and stored in the refrigerator.
• Storage: Store leftover Korean beef, rice, and toppings in separate airtight containers for optimal freshness. Both the beef and rice can last 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Cooked beef can be frozen in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 to 4 months.
• Reheating: Warm up the Korean beef in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat.

FAQs

What is Korean beef?
Korean beef generally refers to beef seasoned with a variety of Asian spices and sauces, often known as Korean beef bulgogi. While traditionally cooked over an open flame, it can also be easily prepared in a skillet or oven.

What do you pair with Korean beef?
You can enjoy Korean beef with just about any side, although rice is the most popular choice. It’s particularly delicious alongside healthy veggies and zesty sauces.

What to Serve with Korean Beef

Korean beef pairs wonderfully with a range of sides, though it’s most often served atop a bed of rice. Consider these options:

• Try rice recipes like Instant Pot White Rice, Sushi Rice, Instant Pot Basmati Rice, or Jasmine Rice. For a twist, serve alongside Coconut Rice or Cauliflower Rice.
• Add some green veggies, such as Steamed Broccoli, Blanched Green Beans, or Boiled Carrots.

More Asian Recipes

If you’re a fan of Asian cuisine, don’t miss out on these delicious recipes:

• General Tso’s Chicken
• Korean Glass Noodles
• Pineapple Chicken
• Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
• Beef Stir Fry
• Miso Glazed Salmon

 

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• Blackened Chicken Rigatoni
• Dill Pickle Ranch Chicken Skewers
• Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken
• Marry Me Chicken Meatball Orzo

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