Korean Ground Beef Bowl

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious dinner that brings a taste of Korea to your kitchen, look no further than the Korean Ground Beef Bowl!

This dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

Did you know that Korean cuisine is celebrated for its bold flavors and vibrant colors? With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that will impress your family and friends.

Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation, and some tips to make this dish truly shine!

Ingredients for Korean Ground Beef Bowl

To create the perfect Korean Ground Beef Bowl, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (80/20 for optimal flavor)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice (jasmine, basmati, or brown rice)
Optional toppings: sesame seeds, sliced cucumber, kimchi, or pickled vegetables.

Optional Ingredients

Vegetables: bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or spinach.
Egg: a fried egg on top for added richness.

How to Prepare the Ground Beef

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Brown until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Flavors: Drain excess fat if necessary. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Season It Up: Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld together.

Making the Perfect Rice Base

While the beef cooks, you can prepare the rice:

Stove Method: Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Rice Cooker: Add rinsed rice and water to your rice cooker, close the lid, and let it cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Instant Pot: Combine rinsed rice and water in the pot. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, then allow a natural release.

Assembly: Bringing It All Together

Once your beef and rice are ready, it’s time to assemble your bowl!

Start with Rice: Spoon a generous amount of cooked rice into the bottom of your bowl.
Layer the Beef: Top the rice with the seasoned ground beef mixture.
Add Veggies: If you’re using any additional vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or sliced bell peppers, add them on top or around the beef.
Garnish: Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and any other toppings you prefer, like kimchi or a fried egg.