This Korean Beef recipe is simple and full of flavor! You’ll love the tender beef marinated in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil that gives it that tasty kick.
Making this dish is a breeze! Just stir-fry the beef, add some veggies if you like, and serve it over rice. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious, fast, and easy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease, as it’s healthier. You can replace it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option if preferred.
Soy Sauce: This ingredient provides saltiness and umami. If you want a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead!
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup if desired.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best! However, you can use powdered versions in a pinch. The flavor can differ slightly, but it’s still effective. I always keep fresh garlic on hand for its strong aroma.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you could try olive oil or peanut oil, but it won’t taste quite the same.
Red Pepper Flakes: They add a bit of heat to the dish. If you’re sensitive to spice, consider omitting them, or add a pinch if you’re feeling adventurous!
How Do I Properly Cook Ground Beef for the Best Texture?
Cooking ground beef correctly is essential for achieving a nice texture in your dish. Here’s how to make it perfect each time:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat before adding the beef; this helps it brown nicely.
- As the beef cooks, break it up with a spatula. This ensures it cooks evenly and prevents clumping.
- Cook it until fully browned, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. No pink should remain.
- Don’t forget to drain any excess grease before adding your sauce. This helps the flavors shine through!
By following these steps, you’ll have ground beef that is tender and flavorful, ready to soak up all that delicious sauce!
How to Make Korean Beef?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Korean beef recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 5-7 minutes browning the beef, then just a few minutes mixing the sauce and letting everything simmer. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s browned. Remember to break the beef apart with a spatula while it cooks, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s nice and browned, you’re ready for the next step!
2. Drain the Grease:
Carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet. This helps keep your dish from being too greasy and lets the flavors shine through. Just tilt the skillet over the sink and let the grease drain out. Be cautious not to spill any beef!
3. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Whisk it all together until well combined. This sauce will give your beef that delicious Korean flavor!
4. Combine and Simmer:
Pour the sauce mixture over the browned ground beef in the skillet. Stir everything together so the beef is well coated in the sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together. You’ll smell the yummy aroma filling your kitchen!
5. Serve It Up:
After simmering, remove the skillet from heat. Serve your flavorful Korean beef over a bed of cooked white rice. The rice soaks up all the delicious sauce and pairs perfectly with the beef.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before you dig in, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh and colorful garnish. Now, everything’s ready to enjoy—dig into your tasty Korean beef!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just be aware that it might result in a slightly milder flavor. You can enhance it by adding a little extra soy sauce or seasoning to your taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
What Can I Use Instead of White Rice?
If you’re looking for alternatives to white rice, try serving the Korean beef over brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Each will provide a unique flavor and texture!
