This Korean Beef recipe is a quick and tasty dish made with thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s packed with flavor and comes together in no time!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a delicious meal. I often serve it over rice, and it makes for a great dinner that feels special but is super simple. Enjoy it with some veggies for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef for its balance of flavor and moisture, but you can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Soy Sauce: This is essential for that umami flavor. If you’re avoiding gluten, opt for tamari or coconut aminos as a great substitute.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness, which balances the soy sauce. If you prefer a healthier choice, use honey or maple syrup in a pinch.
Sesame Oil: This oil brings a nutty flavor that’s key to Korean dishes. If you’re out, you can use a neutral cooking oil with a dash of toasted sesame seeds for that nuttiness.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best for flavor! If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder and ground ginger will work, but start with less since they are stronger.
How Do You Brown Ground Beef Perfectly?
Browning ground beef is all about high heat and careful attention. Avoid overcrowding your skillet; this helps get that nice browning instead of steaming. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding the beef.
- Add the beef without it touching too much. Let it sear for a few minutes before stirring.
- Use a spatula to break up any large pieces and keep cooking until it’s browned, draining fat if needed.
Taking the time to brown it well enhances the overall flavor of your dish!
How to Make Korean Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Korean beef dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally and cook until the beef is fully browned. If there’s any excess fat, carefully drain it away to keep the dish light and tasty.
2. Adding Flavor:
Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook everything together for about a minute, stirring often until you can smell the fragrance of the garlic and ginger. This step adds a delightful flavor to your dish!
3. Making the Sauce:
Now it’s time to create the delicious sauce! Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and if you like a little kick, the red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken and combine all those wonderful flavors.
4. Taste and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and taste your Korean beef. Feel free to adjust any seasoning if you think it needs a little more salt or sweetness. To serve, place the hot Korean beef over a generous bed of cooked white rice and sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh finish. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. Just keep in mind that they may require a little less cooking time, so watch them closely to avoid drying out. The flavor will also be milder, so you may want to increase the soy sauce slightly to enhance the taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the Korean beef cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes entirely. If you want more spice, consider adding a splash of sriracha or using a spicier variety of pepper flakes. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance for you!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Dish?
Serving Korean beef over white rice is classic, but you can also use brown rice for a healthier option. Additionally, pairing it with steamed vegetables or pickled cucumbers adds freshness and balances out the richness of the beef.
