Name: Easy Korean Ground Beef Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 pieces green onions, chopped; as needed serving cooked rice (for serving)

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Korean Ground Beef is a flavorful and savory dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Korea. Often known as “bulgogi ground beef,” this dish consists of ground beef marinated in a delicious blend of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a beloved choice for many, whether served over rice, wrapped in lettuce, or incorporated into other meals. Its bold taste and easy preparation have made it a staple in Korean households and an exciting option for those exploring international cuisine.

The popularity of Korean Ground Beef lies in its versatility. This dish can easily adapt to seasonal vegetables and personal tastes, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, Korean Ground Beef can be prepared in a matter of minutes while still impressing your guests. Its unique flavor profile also pairs well with numerous side dishes, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any meal.

What makes this recipe truly approachable is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, anyone can whisk together an authentic Korean dish without any formal culinary training. Even novice cooks will find that the straightforward steps lead to a satisfying and delicious outcome. This easy Korean Ground Beef recipe is designed to introduce home cooks to the delightful world of Korean cuisine while ensuring that they can achieve impressive results without any hassle. Embrace the flavors, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

What is Korean Ground Beef?

Ingredients

The ingredients for Korean Ground Beef are simple and readily available, making it convenient for home cooks. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish:

Core Ingredients

Ground Beef: 1 pound of ground beef is used, offering a savory base for the dish. Opting for lean ground beef allows you to enjoy this meal without excessive fat, while the rich flavor gives a comforting and hearty essence. You can choose from different cuts based on your preference.
Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup of soy sauce adds depth and umami to the dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile. You can use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness, or experiment with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons of brown sugar provide the necessary sweetness to balance the savory notes of the soy sauce and beef. Brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor, contributing to the dish’s rich texture.
Garlic and Ginger: 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger add aromatic depth, helping to elevate the dish’s flavor. The freshness of these ingredients cuts through the richness of the beef.
Green Onions: 2 chopped green onions will be sprinkled on top for garnish, offering a fresh crunch and a burst of flavor that ties the dish together.

Optional Ingredients

Sesame Oil: Drizzle a teaspoon of sesame oil for a nutty flavor boost that complements the overall dish beautifully.
Vegetables: Consider incorporating seasonal vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers to add color and nutrition to your meal.

Directions

To create your delicious Korean Ground Beef, follow these simple steps. This straightforward recipe ensures that even novice cooks can achieve fantastic results in no time.

Preparation Time

10 minutes of prep

Cooking Time

15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté garlic and ginger: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until it’s browned. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks, ensuring even browning (about 5-7 minutes).
Incorporate soy sauce and brown sugar: Once the beef is browned, stir in the soy sauce and brown sugar, mixing well to distribute the flavors evenly (about 2 minutes).
Add vegetables (if using): If you opted for any vegetables, add them to the skillet at this stage, ensuring they blend well with the beef mixture (about 2-3 minutes).
Cook through and stir: Continue cooking everything together for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld while ensuring that any added vegetables are tender.
Finish with green onions and sesame oil: Once everything is cooked through, remove from heat, and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Drizzle sesame oil for an extra flavor boost.

Serving Suggestions

For an enjoyable meal, serve the Korean Ground Beef over steaming white rice or place it in lettuce wraps for fresh, crunchy bites. This dish can also be paired with kimchi or pickled vegetables for an authentic Korean experience.

Ideal side dishes

Consider serving with a side of sautéed greens such as bok choy or a simple cucumber salad to balance the flavors.

Tips and Variations

Making it Spicy

If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding Gochujang, a Korean chili paste, during the cooking process. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to taste, mixing it in with the soy sauce for a delightful spicy kick.

Vegetarian Version

To create a vegetarian version of this dish, you can substitute ground beef with finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, or crumbled tempeh. Each option provides a unique texture while absorbing the flavors of the marinade beautifully.

Meal Prep and Storage

For storing leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Reheating instructions

You can also use the microwave for quick reheating—simply place in a bowl and use a microwave-safe cover to hold in moisture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like rice, steamed vegetables, and even pancakes or egg rolls for a complete meal experience.

Serving at Gatherings

To turn this dish into a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, serve it buffet-style with fresh lettuce leaves and a variety of toppings, allowing guests to build their own wraps.

Nutritional Information

Caloric Breakdown

One serving of Korean Ground Beef contains approximately 300 calories, with around 20g of protein, 15g of fat, and 20g of carbohydrates. These numbers may vary based on the specific ingredients used, especially with lean or traditional cuts of beef.

Health Benefits

Using lean ground beef not only reduces overall fat content but also offers a great source of protein and essential nutrients such as iron and B vitamins. Incorporating vegetables can further enhance the meal’s nutritional profile.

Dietary Considerations

Gluten-free alternatives: If gluten is a concern, opt for tamari sauce in place of soy sauce.
Low-carb options: To make this dish lower in carbs, serve it over cauliflower rice or incorporate more non-starchy vegetables.

Conclusion

This easy-to-make Korean Ground Beef recipe showcases vibrant flavors and versatile possibilities, making it a delightful addition to your cooking repertoire. By embracing the simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward preparation method, you’ll find yourself creating impressive meals that can please both family and friends alike. Dive into the bold tastes of Korean cuisine and enjoy the satisfaction this dish brings to your table!

FAQs

What is Korean Ground Beef typically served with?
Korean Ground Beef is most commonly served with steamed rice, but it can also be enjoyed in lettuce wraps or alongside various side dishes like kimchi and vegetables.

Can I substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!

Is this recipe spicy?
The basic recipe is not spicy, but you can easily add spice by including Gochujang or red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, use alternatives such as mushrooms, tempeh, or lentils instead of ground beef.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, Korean Ground Beef can be frozen for up to three months. Ensure it is in a well-sealed container or freezer bag before freezing.

What type of ground beef should I use?
For the best results, choose lean ground beef, ideally around 80/20 or 90/10 fat content, to avoid excess grease.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making this dish?
Avoid overcrowding the pan when browning the beef, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning. Also, be careful not to overcook the garlic and ginger.

How long does this meal take to prepare?
This meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick cooking option for any day.

Can I add additional vegetables? Which ones work well?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini make great additions to the dish. Add them when you brown the beef for a deliciously colorful and nutritious meal.

What’s a good way to serve Korean Ground Beef for meal prep?
When meal prepping, portion out the beef into containers with rice or greens, ensuring you have balanced servings for quick grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

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