Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Discover the vibrant and bold flavors of this Korean Ground Beef Bowl, a quick and satisfying meal that perfectly balances savory and tangy notes. This Korean-inspired dish features seasoned lean ground beef served over your choice of fluffy jasmine rice or cauliflower rice, topped with a refreshing mix of quick-pickled vegetables for a healthy twist on a classic.

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This recipe is all about the contrast between the savory-sweet glaze on the beef and the bright acidity of the pickles. Whether you're looking for a nutrient-dense lunch or a family-friendly dinner, these bowls deliver restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• Beef Mixture: 500 g (1 lb) lean ground beef, 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 teaspoon gochujang or sriracha (optional), 2 thinly sliced green onions, 1 tablespoon sesame seeds.
• Rice Base: 4 cups cooked jasmine rice or cauliflower rice.
• Quick Pickled Vegetables: 1 cup julienned carrot, 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber, 1/2 cup thinly sliced radish, 1/2 cup rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt.
• Garnish: Additional sliced green onions and extra sesame seeds.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Pickles

In a mixing bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add the julienned carrots, cucumber, and radish. Toss to coat and let them sit for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Base

Prepare 4 cups of cooked jasmine rice or cauliflower rice according to the package instructions. Keep warm until assembly.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

Step 4: Season the Meat

Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and optional gochujang. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the beef is well-coated.

Step 5: Finish

Remove from the heat and fold in the sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice among four bowls. Top each with a portion of the seasoned beef and a generous handful of the drained pickled vegetables.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with additional green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best results, use a large skillet to allow the beef to sear properly rather than steam. This recipe contains soy and sesame, so ensure you use tamari and check the gochujang label if a gluten-free meal is required. Having your tools ready—including a cutting board, sharp knife, and mixing bowls—will make the 20-minute preparation time breeze by.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This dish is highly adaptable; you can substitute the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner profile. For a vegetarian alternative, crumbled tofu or tempeh works perfectly as a protein substitute. Those following a keto or low-carb diet should opt for the cauliflower rice base.

Serviervorschläge

To add even more protein and richness, serve each bowl with a fried egg on top. The runny yolk creates a delicious sauce that complements the seasoned beef. With regular jasmine rice, each serving provides approximately 420 calories, 23g of protein, and 43g of carbohydrates.

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Enjoy this flavorful Korean Ground Beef Bowl as a fresh and healthy dinner solution. Its combination of savory seasoned meat and bright pickled vegetables makes it a standout meal that is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Yes, the seasoned beef and quick pickled vegetables both store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Keep them separate and reheat the beef gently before assembling with freshly cooked rice.

→ What's the best rice to use?

Jasmine rice works beautifully for its fragrant aroma, but short-grain white rice or brown rice are excellent alternatives. For a low-carb version, cauliflower rice absorbs the savory flavors just as well.

→ Is gochujang necessary for the seasoning?

Gochujang adds authentic Korean depth and mild heat, but sriracha makes a fine substitute. If you prefer no heat at all, simply omit it—the beef will still be deliciously savory from the soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.

→ Can I use other proteins besides beef?

Ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully as lighter alternatives. For a vegetarian version, crumbled firm tofu or tempeh absorbs the seasoning beautifully and provides satisfying protein.

→ How long do quick pickled vegetables last?

These quick pickled vegetables stay crisp and tangy for up to a week in the refrigerator. They're perfect to make ahead and add to various meals throughout the week.

→ What can I serve alongside this bowl?

Kimchi makes a perfect authentic side, or try steamed bok choy, cucumber salad, or miso soup. The bowl is quite filling on its own but pairs well with simple Asian-inspired sides.