Korean Beef Bowls Recipe

Discover this easy Korean Beef Bowls recipe featuring juicy ground beef, a savory-sweet sauce, and simple pantry ingredients. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep. Learn how to make flavorful Korean beef bowls with tips, variations, and serving ideas. Pair it with rice, veggies, or lettuce wraps for a healthy and delicious meal everyone will love!

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1 lb. ground beef
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

Garnishes:

• Green onions, sliced
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Red pepper flakes

For Serving:

• Thinly sliced cucumbers
• Julienned carrots
• 3 cups cooked rice (see notes for my cooking method)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, combine the beef broth and cornstarch. Mix until smooth. Ensure the broth is at room temperature to avoid activating the cornstarch prematurely. Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, hot sauce, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Stir well and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef:
   Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 3 minutes, breaking it into crumbles as it browns. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are softened, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
3. Simmer with Sauce:
   Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Allow the sauce to boil for 3 minutes to thicken and reduce. Stir frequently to ensure the beef is evenly coated. The sauce will start plentiful but will thicken to a rich consistency.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes. Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or in lettuce wraps. Pair with thinly sliced cucumbers and julienned carrots for a refreshing crunch.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: A delightful combination of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.
• Versatile: Can be served over rice, in wraps, or alongside fresh veggies.
• Healthy Option: Use lean ground beef and pair with fresh vegetables for a balanced meal.

Tips

• Thicker Sauce: Simmer longer to achieve a thicker, more concentrated sauce.
• Low-Sodium Alternative: Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth to control salt levels.
• Crispy Veggies: Lightly sauté cucumbers and carrots for a warm, crispy topping.
• Perfect Rice: Use a rice cooker for consistently fluffy rice.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swaps: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives.
• Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
• Sweetener Options: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor.
• Heat Level: Adjust hot sauce or add chili flakes to suit your spice preference.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store the beef and sauce mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

What can I serve this with?
Serve over rice, quinoa, or lettuce wraps. It’s also delicious with noodles or as a filling for tacos.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to preserve the texture.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pairings: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or miso soup for a complete meal.
• Garnish Ideas: Sprinkle additional sesame seeds or drizzle with spicy mayo for an extra kick.
• Leftover Use: Use as a filling for wraps, sandwiches, or over a salad.
• Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with iced green tea or a light lager to balance the flavors.

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