This Korean Beef recipe brings bold flavors to your dinner table. Quick to make, it combines tender beef with a tasty sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness.
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up! I always serve it with rice, and my family can’t get enough of it. Trust me, you’ll want seconds… or thirds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can use lean ground beef for less fat. If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works too. For a vegetarian choice, try crumbled tofu or tempeh.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds a nice umami flavor. If you’re avoiding soy, coconut aminos or tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) are great substitutes.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a caramel-like sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use honey or maple syrup. Just remember they may slightly alter the flavor.
Sesame Oil: This oil brings a unique toasted flavor. If you don’t have it, light olive oil can substitute in a pinch, although it won’t be quite the same.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add heat. If you prefer milder flavors, skip them or use a dash of black pepper instead.
How Do I Make Sure the Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground beef may seem easy, but it’s key to get it right for tasty results. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Use medium heat for even cooking. If it’s too high, you might burn the outside while the inside remains raw.
- Break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks. This helps it brown nicely and mix well with the sauce.
- Drain excess grease after browning, especially if using fattier beef. This keeps the final dish from being too greasy. Use a spoon or tilt the pan to let the grease flow out.
How to Make Korean Beef Over Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cooked white rice
For The Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, so you’ll have it ready in about 20 minutes total! It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
2. Preparing the Sauce:
After the beef is browned, you might want to drain any excess grease from the pan. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a little heat). This will create a tasty sauce to mix with the beef.
3. Mixing Everything Together:
Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked beef in the skillet, stirring well to combine. In another small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in water, then add it to the skillet. Keep stirring for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef.
4. Serving:
Now it’s time to serve your delicious Korean beef! Spoon the beef mixture over the cooked white rice. For a pretty touch, sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top if you’d like. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutions. Just keep in mind that they might have a milder flavor, so consider adding a bit more seasoning or adjusting the soy sauce to enhance the taste as needed.
How to Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like some heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce, or even a dash of sriracha to the skillet before serving. You can also serve with sliced jalapeños on top for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the Korean beef ahead of time. Just cook it and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in a skillet or microwave and serve over freshly cooked rice.
How to Store Leftover Korean Beef?
Leftover Korean beef can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it! Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
