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Easy Korean Ground Beef Bowl Ready in Just 20 Minutes

Savory & Sweet · Fast Weeknight Dinner · High-protein, budget-friendly comfort
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 19 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 serving
Course: Main dish
Cuisine: Korean-inspired
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • The Beef & Glaze
  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended for flavor
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce use tamari for a gluten-free option
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a subtle kick
  • For Serving
  • 3 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • Optional: Sliced cucumbers kimchi, shredded carrots, or a fried egg

Method
 

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and crispy in spots. If there is excess grease, carefully drain it, leaving just a little bit for flavor.
  2. Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant and softened.
  3. Simmer the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over the beef.
  4. Reduce: Let the beef simmer in the sauce for 3 to 5 minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly and coat the meat, creating a rich, glossy finish.
  5. Assemble: Serve the savory beef over warm bowls of rice. Generously top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Add your favorite extras like cucumber or kimchi for crunch.