This Ground Beef Bulgogi is a tasty twist on a classic Korean dish. With sweet and savory flavors from soy sauce, sugar, and garlic, it’s super easy to whip up!
You can serve it over rice or wrap it in lettuce for a fun meal. I love how quick it is to cook! Perfect for busy days when you still want something delicious. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the star here. It gives the dish its rich flavor. If you prefer less fat, choose lean ground beef, or consider ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also use a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness and depth. Use low-sodium soy sauce to cut back on salt without losing flavor. For gluten-free options, tamari works well, or try coconut aminos if you want something milder.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste packs a flavorful punch. If you can’t find it, mix a bit of chili powder or sriracha with some miso paste. Adjust to your heat preference – the more you add, the spicier it’ll be!
Sesame Oil: This brings a nutty flavor to the dish. If you don’t have it, you can use olive oil, but it’ll change the taste slightly. Toasted sesame oil provides even more flavor if you can find it.
How Do You Get the Beef Just Right?
Cooking the beef well is key for a tasty bowl. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet over medium-high heat. This will help brown the beef quickly.
- Mix the ingredients well before cooking so everything combines nicely in the skillet.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Don’t forget to remove it from heat and stir in the green onions. This keeps them fresh and vibrant.
With these tips, your Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowl will be flavorful and delicious!
How to Make a Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowl?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 cup iceberg or romaine lettuce leaves
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Kimchi for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowl will take around 15 minutes of preparation and about 10 minutes of cooking time. In just about 25 minutes, you’ll be ready to enjoy a flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, gochujang, and black pepper. Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef mixture. Cook while stirring frequently for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the beef is nicely browned and fully cooked. Make sure to break up any larger pieces for even cooking.
3. Add Green Onions and Finish Cooking:
After the beef is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped green onions. This will add a fresh flavor to your dish. Set the skillet aside for a moment.
4. Assemble Your Bowl:
Take a bowl and place a layer of cooked rice at the bottom. Then, spoon a generous amount of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the rice.
5. Add Fresh Toppings:
Next, top the beef layer with sliced cucumbers and shredded carrots. You can also add a few lettuce leaves either on the side or as a base in your bowl.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by sprinkling sesame seeds on top of your creation. If you like, serve with a side of kimchi for an extra kick of flavor. Enjoy your Ground Beef Bulgogi Bowl warm!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary slightly, especially with leaner meats like turkey. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Gochujang?
If you don’t have gochujang, you can use a mix of sriracha and a bit of sugar for sweetness. Start with 1 tablespoon of sriracha and adjust based on your heat preference. Another option is to use red pepper flakes mixed with a touch of honey or brown sugar.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep the beef moist. Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Bowl?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your choice of veggies. Bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini would complement the dish beautifully. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking and layering in the bowl.
