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Korean Beef Bowl Recipe

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4.2 from 10 reviews

This Korean Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal featuring ground beef simmered in a savory-sweet sauce made with brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger. Garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, it’s perfect served over rice for a satisfying and easy dinner in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Sauce

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red-pepper flakes (or more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
  • 1/4 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, reduced sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, crushed red-pepper flakes, and ground ginger until fully combined to create a balanced savory and sweet sauce.
  2. Cook the Aromatics and Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook thoroughly for 3-5 minutes, breaking up the meat as it browns. Drain excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
  3. Simmer the Beef in Sauce: Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture and sliced green onions into the skillet with the beef. Stir well to coat all the meat. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 2 minutes until heated through and the flavors meld.
  4. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with additional green onions and sesame seeds to add a fresh and nutty finish to the dish. This bowl pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice.

Notes

  • For spicier bowls, increase the amount of crushed red-pepper flakes or add a dash of gochujang (Korean chili paste).
  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Serve over cooked rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.