This Korean Ground Beef recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and umami flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Seoul. The ground beef is sautéed with a fragrant blend of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s not only incredibly satisfying but also quick to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice and fresh vegetables, making it a wholesome choice for any dinner table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’re going to love this Korean ground beef recipe for its unbeatable flavor and simplicity. With its rich, savory profile and just the right amount of sweetness from brown sugar and soy sauce, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those hectic weeknights. It’s also a versatile meal, fitting well into various diets, whether you’re looking for something high in protein or simply aiming for a comforting, hearty dinner.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor of your dish tremendously. If you can, opt for freshly minced rather than pre-packaged.
- Cook on High Heat: Searing your beef on high heat helps to lock in juices, keeping it tender and flavorful.
- Double the Recipe: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Double the batch, and you’ll have delicious leftovers ready for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, feel free to toss in some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or green onions while cooking.
Make Ahead Tips
This Korean ground beef dish is perfect for meal prep! You can brown the beef and mix in the seasonings ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also make a larger batch and freeze portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a spicy version.
- Sweet and Sour: Include some pineapple chunks for a sweet twist.
- Different Proteins: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
How to Serve
Serve the finished Korean ground beef hot over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal. Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple cucumber salad to balance the meal and add freshness.
Pairing Suggestions
For beverage pairings, consider serving a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or a refreshing Korean beer such as Hite or Cass. A fruity iced tea or even a chilled sparkling water with a hint of lemon would also complement the flavors beautifully. For dessert, a scoop of green tea ice cream or fresh fruit makes for a delightful finish.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze, place the cooled beef mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
All you need for this dish is a large skillet or frying pan. A wooden spoon or spatula will be helpful for stirring. If you like, you can also use a rice cooker to prepare your rice concurrently.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free, but always check your sauce labels.
- Dairy-Free: The recipe is dairy-free as is, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, consider adding fresh vegetables like snap peas or zucchini to the mix for a more seasonal touch. In fall and winter, you might want to incorporate root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes, which offer a heartier texture.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use ground beef alternatives like turkey or chicken?
Yes, both ground turkey and chicken work well in this recipe. Just be mindful that they may require slightly less cooking time.
How do I adjust the flavor if I find it too salty?
You can balance it by adding a touch of sugar or honey to counteract the saltiness.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! The beef can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days, or you can freeze it for longer storage.
Korean Ground Beef
This Korean Ground Beef recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and umami flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Seoul.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 is best)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain excess fat if necessary, leaving a little for flavor.
- Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the beef.
- Stir well to combine, letting it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is slightly thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 396Total Fat: 24gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 101mgSodium: 983mgCarbohydrates: 10gFiber: 2gSugar: 6gProtein: 33g
Asianplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Korean ground beef recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch in flavor, making it a family favorite that can be enjoyed any night of the week. With its adaptability and comforting profiles, it’s a dish that invites creativity while remaining true to its roots. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!
