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Quick Korean Bulgogi Ground Beef Rice Bowls

korean bulgogi ground beef rice bowl - featured image
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A quick and flavorful Korean-inspired ground beef rice bowl with a sweet and savory marinade, perfect for busy weeknights and comforting meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) 80/20 ground beef
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 stalks green onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup grated Asian pear or apple (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 cups (about 800 g) cooked white or brown rice
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Optional vegetables for serving: thinly sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, kimchi

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and grated Asian pear or apple in a mixing bowl. Stir until sugar dissolves.
  2. Add ground beef to the marinade and mix thoroughly to coat. Let sit for 10 minutes if possible.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a teaspoon of oil if using lean beef.
  4. Add the marinated beef to the skillet, spreading evenly. Let sear without stirring for 2 minutes to develop caramelization.
  5. Break up the beef with a spatula and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes total.
  6. Turn off heat and stir in toasted sesame oil and red pepper flakes if using.
  7. While beef cooks, heat cooked rice and fluff with a fork.
  8. Divide rice into bowls, top with bulgogi ground beef, garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and optional fresh veggies.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper browning. Add sesame oil off the heat to preserve flavor. Marinate for at least 10 minutes for best flavor but can cook immediately if needed. Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before serving. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freeze for up to 2 months (beef only).

Nutrition

Keywords: Korean bulgogi, ground beef, rice bowl, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, Korean barbecue, savory, sweet, spicy

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/quick-korean-bulgogi-ground-beef-rice-bowls-easy-recipe-for-flavorful-meals/