This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a tasty mix of seasoned beef, rice, and colorful veggies. It’s quick to make and bursting with yummy flavors that everyone will love!
Trust me, I can’t get enough of this bowl! It’s like a party in my mouth. I often whip it up for a quick dinner, and it always hits the spot. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-bowl meal?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe shines with ground beef for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, ground mushrooms or lentils work great!
Cooked Rice: Jasmine rice gives a nice aroma, but short-grain rice is also a good fit. If you’re watching carbs, cauliflower rice is a healthy substitute. Just be sure to sauté it well to avoid mushiness.
Green Onions: Fresh and crunchy, they add a great onion flavor. If you don’t have green onions, chives can be a good substitute. Don’t forget to save some for garnish—they make the dish pop!
Soy Sauce: I recommend low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness. For a gluten-free option, tamari works just as well. If you need a soy-free option, coconut aminos is a tasty alternative.
How Do I Get the Perfect Beef Texture?
Getting the right texture for the beef is key! Start by cooking it over medium heat. This helps render the fat and brown the meat well.
- Use a spatula to break it apart into small crumbles while cooking to ensure even browning.
- Don’t rush it—allow about 5-7 minutes for cooking, stirring occasionally.
- By letting the meat brown nicely, you’ll enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
How to Make a Delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Bowl:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cooked rice (jasmine or short grain preferred)
- 3 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp ground ginger (or fresh ginger, minced)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, giving you a total of about 35 minutes to create a tasty meal. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure it’s nice and fully cooked!
2. Add the Aromatics:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and sliced green onions (remember to save some green onions for later!). Add the ground ginger to the skillet, and cook everything together for about 2 minutes until it smells fantastic.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Once it’s well blended, pour this mixture into your browned beef, stirring to combine all those delicious flavors.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of water, creating a slurry. Pour this into the beef mixture and stir well. Let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken up and cling nicely to the beef.
5. Prepare the Bowls:
While your beef is simmering away, take your cooked rice and place a generous amount in the bottom of each bowl. This will be the perfect base for your beef mixture!
6. Assemble the Dish:
Once the beef is cooked and the sauce has thickened, spoon the Korean ground beef mixture over each rice-filled bowl. Make sure to get that delicious sauce on top!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds and any remaining sliced green onions over the top for a fresh touch. If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes too! Serve your Korean Ground Beef Bowl hot and enjoy this tasty meal.
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can make a lighter version of this dish. Just keep in mind that these meats can be drier than beef, so consider adding a little extra sesame oil or a splash of chicken broth for moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
Don’t worry! You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option or use coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Keep in mind that both options are less salty, so you might want to adjust the quantity to taste.
Can I Make This Bowl Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat (like lentils, tempeh, or store-bought meat alternatives) and use a vegan soy sauce or tamari. Adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavors!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or warm on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.
