Delicious Korean Ground Beef Bowl (Quick & Easy)
The Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that captures the bold flavors of Korean cuisine. With ground beef, soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar or honey, this dish is packed with savory, umami goodness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal that’s both flavorful and simple to prepare. Serve it over a bowl of rice, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that the whole family will love!
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
- 2 cups 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.
Instructions
- 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.
- Cook 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.
- Assemble the 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.