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Korean Beef Bowls

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Korean Beef Bowls are a quick, 20-minute meal featuring ground beef simmered in a savory-sweet sauce with soy, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. Served over rice with fresh toppings, they’re flavorful, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (85–90% lean)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced or grated
  • ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or mirin (optional)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes or 1 tbsp gochujang (optional)
  • 3 green onions, sliced (divided)
  • Cooked white or jasmine rice, for serving
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Shredded carrots, cucumber, or steamed vegetables (optional toppings)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in brown sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar (if using). Mix well to coat the beef evenly.
  4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Add red pepper flakes or gochujang for heat, if desired.
  6. Stir in most of the sliced green onions, reserving some for garnish.
  7. Serve the beef over warm cooked rice and top with sesame seeds, extra green onions, and optional vegetables or a fried egg.

Notes

  • Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
  • Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Great for meal prep — store with rice in containers for up to 4 days.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach directly to the skillet for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/korean-beef-bowls/