Save to Pinterest Experience a burst of Korean-inspired flavors with this Korean Ground Beef Bowl. This dish combines savory gochujang-glazed beef with fresh, crunchy vegetables and tangy kimchi, creating a balanced and vibrant meal that is ready in just 30 minutes. It is the ultimate solution for those craving bold, international flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
Save to Pinterest With its vibrant colors and savory umami profile, this rice bowl is a meal that satisfies both the eyes and the palate. The combination of warm rice and chilled vegetables offers a satisfying contrast in every bite, making it a perfect quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cups cooked short-grain rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup shelled edamame, cooked
- 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrot, julienned
- 1 cup kimchi, chopped
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add sesame oil. Sauté garlic and ginger for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 2
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking up meat with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
- Step 3
- Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the beef.
- Step 4
- Remove from heat. Stir in half of the green onions.
- Step 5
- To assemble bowls, divide rice among 4 serving bowls. Top each with ground beef, edamame, cucumber, carrot, and kimchi.
- Step 6
- Sprinkle with remaining green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Adjust the amount of gochujang for more or less heat depending on your spice tolerance. For the best texture, ensure your skillet is preheated before adding the beef to get a nice brown sear.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option. For extra crunch, you can add sliced radish or shredded cabbage to your bowl.
Serviervorschläge
Serve each bowl with a fried egg on top for added richness. Finish the dish by sprinkling the remaining green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top before serving.
Save to Pinterest This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a fantastic way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful, it is sure to become a regular in your rotation!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What does gochujang taste like?
Gochujang offers a complex flavor profile combining fermented chili heat, subtle sweetness, and rich umami depth. The paste adds savory spiciness that coats the beef beautifully.
- → Can I make this bowl less spicy?
Absolutely. Reduce the gochujang amount to 1 tablespoon or choose a mild variety. The brown sugar helps balance heat, and fresh vegetables provide cooling contrast.
- → What rice works best for this bowl?
Short-grain white or brown rice creates the ideal foundation. The sticky texture holds ingredients together, while the mild flavor lets the seasoned beef shine.
- → Can I prepare components ahead?
The ground beef mixture stores well for 3-4 days and reheats beautifully. Vegetables can be sliced in advance, though add cucumber right before serving to maintain crispness.
- → What protein alternatives work well?
Ground turkey or chicken offer lighter options while absorbing the bold flavors. Plant-based crumbles work perfectly for vegetarian versions, though you may want extra sesame oil for richness.
- → Is kimchi essential for this bowl?
Kimchi adds authentic tang and probiotic benefits, but you can substitute quick-pickled vegetables or extra fresh crunch if needed. The fermented flavor elevates the entire dish.