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Savory Korean-Style Bulgogi Ground Beef Rice Bowl

bulgogi ground beef rice bowl - featured image
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A quick and easy Korean-inspired rice bowl featuring ground beef marinated in a savory-sweet bulgogi sauce, perfect for busy weeknights and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste, optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Asian pear or apple (about 50g, optional)
  • 2 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Vegetables for topping: cucumber slices, shredded carrots, or kimchi

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup uncooked jasmine or short-grain rice under cold water until water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions (typically 1 cup rice to 1.25 cups water), about 15-20 minutes. Keep warm.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, toasted sesame oil, gochujang (if using), and grated Asian pear or apple until sugar dissolves.
  3. Add ground beef to the marinade and mix well to coat all the meat. Let sit for 10 minutes if possible to allow flavors to meld.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and spread evenly. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop caramelized bits, then stir and break up the meat. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until beef is fully cooked and sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Stir in sliced green onions at the last minute.
  6. Assemble bowls by spooning warm rice into serving dishes. Top generously with bulgogi ground beef mixture. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and add desired toppings such as cucumber slices, shredded carrots, or kimchi.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper caramelization. Let the marinade rest on the beef for at least 10 minutes for better flavor. Watch the heat to avoid burning the sugar in the marinade; add a teaspoon of water if pan gets dry. Leftovers reheat well in a skillet with a splash of water to keep beef juicy. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari. Optional toppings like a fried egg or pickled radish add extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/savory-korean-style-bulgogi-ground-beef-rice-bowl-recipe-easy-and-delicious/