Easy Korean Beef Bowl

Experience a burst of bold flavors with this Easy Korean Beef Bowl, a quick and satisfying meal that brings together savory ground beef and a spicy gochujang sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is as vibrant as it is delicious, offering a balance of protein and fresh, crunchy vegetables in just 25 minutes.

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The secret to this dish lies in the combination of fresh aromatics like garlic and ginger with the deep umami of soy sauce and the signature heat of Korean chili paste. Whether served over fluffy white rice or a light cauliflower base, it provides a nutritious and filling meal that everyone will enjoy.

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 (about 1 cup per serving)
• 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

Using a large skillet and a sturdy spatula is key to breaking down the beef into fine crumbles. For the best flavor, ensure the skillet is hot before adding the meat to achieve a good sear. If you are preparing rice from scratch, start your rice cooker or saucepan before you begin the beef to have everything ready at once.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is incredibly flexible. For a lighter version, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. To keep it low-carb, use cauliflower rice as the base. If you need a gluten-free meal, replace the soy sauce with tamari and double-check that your gochujang brand is certified gluten-free.

Serviervorschläge

Assemble the bowls by placing the beef over a generous portion of rice and arranging the sliced cucumber and shredded carrots on top. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. For those who enjoy extra heat, add a drizzle of sriracha or fresh chili slices, and serve with a side of kimchi for a traditional tangy finish.

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This Korean Beef Bowl is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a meal that is both healthy and packed with flavor. Enjoy your homemade, restaurant-quality bowl that is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute tamari for the soy sauce and ensure your gochujang is certified gluten-free. Many brands now offer gluten-free versions of this Korean chili paste.

→ What can I substitute for gochujang?

If you don't have gochujang, you can use a mixture of red pepper flakes, miso paste, and a touch of honey. Sriracha with some brown sugar also works in a pinch.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The level of spice depends on your gochujang. It typically offers a moderate heat that's balanced by the brown sugar. Add extra gochujang or fresh chili if you prefer it spicier.

→ Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well and creates a lighter version. You may want to add a bit more sesame oil to compensate for the reduced fat content.

→ How long does this keep in the refrigerator?

The seasoned beef will keep for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Store the rice and fresh toppings separately for the best texture when reheating.

→ Can I freeze the cooked beef mixture?

Yes, the cooked beef freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.