Name: Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean
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); Vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or spinach; Sesame seeds; Sliced cucumber; Kimchi or pickled vegetables; Egg (fried, for added richness)

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Introduction

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful meal ready in just 25 minutes. It combines savory marinated beef with steamed rice and fresh toppings for a satisfying and easy dinner option. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss.

A white bowl filled with a base layer of fluffy white rice, topped with a generous layer of cooked minced beef that is dark brown and textured with small chunks. The beef is sprinkled with white sesame seeds and small chopped green onions, adding contrast with their bright green color. Two light brown wooden chopsticks rest on the edge of the bowl. The dish is set on a white marbled surface, with a soft grey cloth casually placed in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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
Vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or spinach
Egg (a fried egg on top for added richness, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the rice. 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 sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Alternatively, use a rice cooker or Instant Pot following your device’s instructions.
Step 2: Cook the ground beef. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Add garlic and ginger. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Season the beef. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes so flavors meld.
Step 5: Assemble the bowl. Spoon cooked rice into bowls. Top with the seasoned ground beef mixture.
Step 6: Add vegetables. If using, add steamed or fresh vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots on top or around the beef.
Step 7: Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra green onions. Add optional toppings such as kimchi or a fried egg for extra richness.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
Add a fried egg on top for extra protein and creaminess.
Use any fresh or steamed vegetables you have on hand to add color and nutrients.
To make it spicier, add a dash of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the beef mixture.

Storage

Store leftover beef and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Add fresh toppings after reheating for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A white bowl contains two main layers: a base layer of soft, fluffy white rice covering the bottom, and on top, a generous layer of cooked, finely crumbled ground meat with a rich brown color. The meat is sprinkled with small, white sesame seeds and chopped green onions, adding bright green accents. A light-colored pair of chopsticks rests on the rim of the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a gray cloth softly blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Adjust cooking time to ensure the meat is fully cooked and consider adding a bit more oil for moisture.

What rice works best for this bowl?

Jasmine, basmati, or brown rice all work well. Choose based on your preference for texture and flavor. Brown rice adds more fiber but requires a longer cooking time.