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Korean Beef Bowl

Tender, savory ground beef glazed in a sweet-salty Korean sauce served over fluffy rice. A simplified bulgogi-inspired dish that delivers authentic Korean flavors in just 20 minutes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Korean Beef
  • 1 pound ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 green onions, sliced
For Serving
  • 3 cups cooked white rice
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • additional green onions for garnish

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the brown sugar completely dissolves to prevent grittiness and ensure even caramelization.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. Let some pieces develop a golden crust for added flavor.
  3. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving just enough to keep the beef moist. Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the browned beef.
  4. Reduce heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. Watch as the sauce reduces and coats each piece of beef with a glossy glaze. If it reduces too quickly, add a tablespoon of water.
  5. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the sliced green onions. The residual heat will soften them slightly while maintaining their fresh bite and vibrant color.
  6. Divide warm rice among serving bowls and top generously with the glazed Korean beef. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and additional green onions for garnish.

Notes

Don't skip draining the beef fat for proper sauce adhesion. Avoid overcooking the sauce to prevent burnt taste. Add green onions at the end to maintain fresh flavor. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beef actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld. Start rice in rice cooker before prepping ingredients to save time.