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30-Minute Korean Beef Bowl

 

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio preferred)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp minced ginger
  • 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 cups cooked short-grain rice
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup kimchi (optional)
  • 1 tbsp sliced green onions, plus more for garnish
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
  • Optional toppings: fried egg, sliced avocado, bean sprouts

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
  2. Drain excess fat if desired, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Push meat to one side and add diced onions to the empty space. Cook for 2 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and ginger to the onions and cook for 30-45 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Mix the beef with aromatics, then reduce heat to medium. Add gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, rice vinegar, and brown sugar.
  5. Stir thoroughly to coat the beef evenly and simmer for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  6. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water.
  7. Divide warm rice among serving bowls.
  8. Top rice with the beef mixture, placing it slightly off-center.
  9. Arrange shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and kimchi (if using) around the beef.
  10. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
  11. Add any optional toppings like a fried egg or avocado slices if desired.
  12. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • For a milder version, reduce the gochujang to 1-2 tablespoons and increase brown sugar slightly.
  • The beef mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days, making this perfect for meal prep.
  • For a lower-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or a mix of regular rice and riced vegetables.
  • Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

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