Easy Korean Beef Bowl

This Easy Korean Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful dish that brings Korean-inspired tastes to your table in just 25 minutes. It features savory lean ground beef simmered in a spicy and sweet gochujang sauce, served over your choice of rice and finished with vibrant, fresh garnishes.

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Whether you are looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a protein-packed bowl, this recipe is designed for simplicity. It combines the warmth of cooked beef with the crisp crunch of julienned carrots and sliced cucumbers for a balanced texture.

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

Use a large skillet and a spatula to break up the beef into small crumbles as it browns. This ensures the sauce coats every piece evenly. Grating the ginger fresh provides a more vibrant aromatic profile compared to dried ginger.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a lighter protein version, substitute ground turkey or chicken. To make the dish gluten-free, use tamari and a certified gluten-free gochujang. For a low-carb meal, cauliflower rice serves as a perfect base instead of white rice.

Serviervorschläge

Serve individual bowls topped with the beef mixture, followed by the fresh cucumber, shredded carrots, and green onions. For added texture and traditional flavor, serve with a side of kimchi and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

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This Easy Korean Beef Bowl is an efficient way to enjoy deep, savory flavors with minimal cleanup. It is a satisfying main dish that perfectly balances bold Korean spices with fresh vegetable garnishes.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What does gochujang taste like?

Gochujang is a fermented Korean chili paste with a complex flavor profile. It combines sweet, savory, and spicy notes with a deep umami richness. The paste has a slightly thick texture and a mild heat that builds gradually.

→ Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

The seasoned beef stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. For best results, store toppings separately and add fresh garnishes when serving.

→ Is this dish very spicy?

The spice level is moderate and adjustable. Two tablespoons of gochujang provides a gentle warmth. Add more paste, sliced fresh chilies, or sriracha if you prefer more heat.

→ What protein alternatives work well?

Ground turkey or chicken make excellent lighter substitutions. Plant-based ground meat crumbles also work and absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully.

→ How do I make this gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and verify your gochujang brand is certified gluten-free. Most traditional gochujang contains wheat, but gluten-free versions are available.

→ Can I freeze the cooked beef mixture?

Yes, the cooled beef mixture freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly. Fresh toppings are best added after reheating.