Name: Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 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); Sesame seeds; Sliced cucumber; Kimchi; Pickled vegetables; Vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or spinach (steamed or fresh); Fried egg (for added richness)

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Introduction

This Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and flavorful meal that combines savory beef with bright, fresh toppings over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a satisfying balance of protein, veggies, and comforting grains.

Two white bowls filled with layers of food sit on a white marbled surface. Each bowl has a bottom layer of white rice with soft, fluffy grains. On top of the rice is a thick layer of dark brown minced beef cooked with a slightly crispy texture. The beef is sprinkled with small golden sesame seeds and chopped bright green scallions. Next to the bowls is a small clear glass bowl of sliced scallions and another small clear bowl with sesame seeds. Two glasses of light amber beer, one with a frothy top, are also visible. A pair of wooden chopsticks lies across one bowl. 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: bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or spinach (optional)
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. For stove method, combine rice with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Alternatively, use a rice cooker or an Instant Pot according to your preference.
Step 2: Cook the ground beef. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add garlic and ginger to the beef and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Assemble the bowl starting with a generous scoop of cooked rice at the bottom.
Step 6: Top the rice with the seasoned ground beef mixture.
Step 7: Add any optional vegetables you like, such as steamed broccoli or sliced bell peppers, on top or around the beef.
Step 8: Garnish with sesame seeds, extra chopped green onions, and optional toppings like kimchi or a fried egg.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Try adding different vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as spinach or carrots.
A fried egg on top adds richness and extra protein.
To boost flavor, marinate the ground beef in soy sauce and sesame oil for 10 minutes before cooking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. If adding an egg, cook fresh before serving as it doesn’t store well.

How to Serve

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 substituted for a leaner option, though the flavor will be milder. Adjust seasoning to taste.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu or cooked lentils and use soy sauce or tamari for seasoning to keep it plant-based.