Korean Beef Rice Bowls

Embark on a culinary journey to Korea with our delicious and easy-to-make 20 Minute Korean Beef Rice Bowls! This mouthwatering dish combines the rich flavors of Korean cuisine with the simplicity of a one-pan meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.

Korean Beef Rice Bowls

Korean cuisine is known for its bold, rich flavors that tantalize the taste buds with a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy notes. In this dish, we incorporate a delectable sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, ginger, and red pepper flakes, which infuse the beef with an irresistible depth of flavor. The result is a beautiful marriage of taste and texture that will leave you craving more.

The beauty of this Korean Beef Rice Bowl lies not only in its mouthwatering taste but also in its simplicity and versatility. Served over a bed of fluffy rice, this dish can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or additional toppings. The combination of tender, flavorful beef and perfectly cooked rice creates a comforting and filling meal that is sure to become a staple in your home.

So, go ahead and whip up this scrumptious Korean Beef Rice Bowl for your next dinner or lunch. It’s a meal that celebrates the essence of Korean cuisine in a simple, accessible way, perfect for both experienced cooks and those new to exploring international flavors.

• Rice: Rice is a versatile and gluten-free grain. I love using jasmine rice for these types of dishes but you can substitute it with Basmati rice or even quinoa for a protein-packed alternative.
• Ground beef: Lean ground beef is a great source of protein but for a vegetarian or vegan version, try using plant-based ground meat substitutes or crumbled tofu.
• Garlic: Known for its distinct flavor, garlic is packed with antioxidants and has numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing blood pressure. So go ahead and use lots of it!
• Brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness to the dish. You can replace it with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener option.
• Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and aids digestion. It also adds a warm, zesty flavor to the dish. Ground ginger is used here for convenience, but feel free to use freshly grated ginger for a more potent taste.
• Red pepper flakes: These provide a touch of heat to the dish. Adjust the quantity to your preference or use a milder spice like paprika for a less spicy version.
• Soy sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce adds a rich, umami flavor to the dish. For a gluten-free option, try using tamari or coconut aminos.
• Sesame oil: Toasted sesame oil adds a distinctive, nutty flavor to the dish. You can also use regular sesame oil or another mildly-flavored oil like avocado oil if preferred.
• Green onions: Green onions add a fresh, slightly sharp flavor that complements the rich taste of the beef. Chives or thinly sliced shallots can be used as alternatives.
• Sesame seeds: These little seeds provide a subtle crunch and nutty taste. They are also a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and various minerals. Swap them with crushed peanuts or cashews for a different texture and flavor.

Home cooking doesn’t get much easier than this Korean ground beef recipe! All you have to do is steam some rice and cook some ground beef! And bam! About 20 minutes later you’ve got dinner on the table! Not to mention, the leftovers are fantastic for meal prep.

To get the recipe started, you need to begin cooking the rice. I usually use jasmine rice for this dish and use 1 cup of rice, 2 cups of water, and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. However, every type of rice is different. So if you aren’t using jasmine rice it’s important to cook your rice according to the package instructions. 

Next, start by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes while breaking it up into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Then add the garlic and cook the beef for another 2 to 3 minutes or until it begins to brown and no longer pink.

While the ground meat is cooking, whisk together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. I also like to add a bit of water since I like my beef a bit more saucy but it’s up to you.

Next, pour the sauce over the beef and let it simmer for another minute while stirring constantly. Then remove the ground beef mixture from the heat so it doesn’t continue to cook.

Garnish the beef with some sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions to finish the dish. Then serve it over the hot steamed white or brown rice along with your favorite vegetable side like carrots and broccoli and enjoy! 

What Can I Pair This Korean Beef Rice Bowl With?

You can pair the dish with a variety of sides such as:

• Steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bok choy, or green beans
• A light cucumber salad or kimchi for added crunch and tanginess
• A simple miso soup or clear broth to complement the flavors
• Korean side dishes (banchan) like pickled radish or spinach salad for an authentic touch

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead Of Time And Reheat It Later?

Yes, you can make the Korean beef and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the beef in a skillet or microwave until heated through, then serve it over freshly cooked rice.

Is Lean Ground Beef Healthy?

In moderation, lean ground beef is actually pretty good for you. Yes, it does contain more fat than ground turkey or ground chicken, but it’s also packed with loads of high-quality protein that is needed to keep your muscles and bones healthy. It’s also a great source of vitamin B-12, which is really important for blood formation, the brain, and the nervous system. And in just one serving of ground beef, you get 15% of the recommended daily value for iron!

Other Great Korean Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Korean Style Pork Chops: Flavor-packed, juicy pork chops marinated in a delicious Korean-inspired sauce and grilled to perfection. A must-try for pork chop lovers!
• Sweet & Spicy Korean Meatballs: These scrumptious meatballs are bursting with flavor from the perfect balance of sweet and spicy Korean sauce. A delightful appetizer or main course.
• Bibimbap (Korean Rice Bowl): A colorful and mouthwatering Korean rice bowl featuring a variety of vegetables, protein, and a delicious gochujang sauce. A satisfying and customizable meal.
• Korean Fried Chicken: Crispy, tender fried chicken coated in a delectable Korean-style glaze. A finger-licking good dish that will leave you craving more.
• Korean BBQ Chicken: Succulent and flavorful chicken marinated in a sweet and savory Korean BBQ sauce, perfect for grilling or cooking on the stovetop.
• Korean Beef Bulgogi: Thinly sliced beef marinated in a delightful blend of Korean seasonings and grilled to perfection. Enjoy it wrapped in lettuce leaves or over rice.
• Korean Beef Stir Fry: A quick and easy stir-fry dish loaded with tender beef, vegetables, and a mouthwatering Korean-inspired sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Korean BBQ Ribs: Tender, juicy ribs marinated in a flavorful Korean BBQ sauce and grilled to perfection. A fantastic dish to enjoy during the summer months or at any BBQ event.