Easy Korean Beef Bowl

Experience the bold flavors of Seoul with this Easy Korean Beef Bowl. This quick and savory dish features lean ground beef simmered in a spicy gochujang sauce, balanced with sweet brown sugar and fragrant ginger. It is a vibrant, restaurant-quality meal that you can bring to your table in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something special yet simple.

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Using fresh, crunchy toppings like julienned carrots and sliced cucumbers provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy beef, making every bite a perfect balance of textures.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
• 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups cooked white rice or cauliflower rice
• 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 cup carrot, julienned or shredded
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• Optional: 1 fresh red chili, sliced thin
• Optional: Kimchi for serving

Instructions

Step 1

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add sesame oil. When hot, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking up the meat, for 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Step 2

Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Mix well and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef.

Step 4

Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Remove from heat.

Step 5

To serve, divide cooked rice or cauliflower rice among bowls. Top each with Korean beef.

Step 6

Garnish with cucumber, carrot, green onions, sesame seeds, and optional chili or kimchi. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra heat, increase the amount of gochujang or add a drizzle of sriracha at the end. If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Always ensure you cook the meat until it is fully browned to develop the best flavor.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari and ensure your gochujang brand is certified gluten-free. For a low-carb version, serve the beef over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of white rice. This dish is highly adaptable to your dietary needs without sacrificing the authentic taste.

Serviervorschläge

Serve the Korean beef in deep ceramic bowls over a fluffy bed of rice. Top generously with the fresh vegetables and sesame seeds. Adding a side of kimchi provides a delicious tangy element that complements the spicy beef perfectly.

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With its vibrant colors and rich, savory aromas, this Easy Korean Beef Bowl is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the satisfying combination of spicy beef and fresh vegetables in every mouthful.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What makes this dish Korean-inspired?

The combination of gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger creates authentic Korean flavors. Gochujang provides the signature sweet and spicy taste that defines this cuisine.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu, plant-based ground meat, or mushrooms. Adjust cooking time accordingly as vegetables and tofu cook faster than beef.

→ Is gochujang very spicy?

Gochujang offers moderate heat with a sweet undertone. If you're sensitive to spice, start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste. For extra heat, add sliced chilies or sriracha.

→ What goes well with Korean beef bowls?

Kimchi adds authentic flavor and probiotics. Steamed bok choy, roasted broccoli, or quick-pickled vegetables complement the rich beef. A side of miso soup makes a complete meal.

→ How long does this keep in the refrigerator?

The cooked beef mixture stores well for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently with a splash of water to prevent drying. Store toppings separately to maintain crispness.