This Easy Korean Beef is a quick and tasty dish that packs a punch with sweet and savory flavors. It’s made with tender beef, yummy soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of ginger.
You can whip this up in about 30 minutes! I love serving it over rice with some veggies on the side. It’s so good, you’ll want it for dinner every night! 🍚🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean beef is ideal since it reduces excess fat. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian alternative, try using textured vegetable protein (TVP) or mushrooms, which also give a nice texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that rich flavor. If you only have garlic powder, use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove. However, I recommend fresh for the best taste!
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is great for controlling salt levels. If you’re gluten-free, look for tamari or coconut aminos as substitutes. They provide a similar flavor while catering to dietary needs.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and depth. If you’re out, you can use white sugar, honey, or maple syrup instead. Adjust the amount to taste for any of these alternatives.
Green Onions: They add freshness and a pop of color. If you don’t have green onions, you could use finely chopped chives or even diced bell peppers for crunch.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Your Korean Beef?
Building the flavor is key in this dish! Start by browning the beef. This process adds depth, so don’t rush it. As the beef cooks, make sure to add garlic just before the meat is done to prevent burning.
- Cook the beef until no longer pink, then drain the fat to keep the dish light.
- After adding garlic, let it cook briefly until fragrant; don’t let it brown too much.
- When you mix in the sauces, let the dish simmer. This step helps the flavors blend beautifully.
- Finally, adjust the sweetness of the sauce by tasting. You can add a touch more sugar if you want it sweeter.
Enjoy crafting this Easy Korean Beef that captures delightful flavors with every bite!
Easy Korean Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably lean or 80/20)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s a quick and delightful option for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off for a lighter dish.
2. Add Garlic:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. It adds so much flavor!
3. Create the Flavorful Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. Now, it’s time to mix in the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. Stir everything together well to coat the beef evenly in that sticky and savory sauce.
4. Simmer:
Let the mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes. This helps thicken the sauce a little and lets the flavors meld beautifully. Keep an eye on it while it cooks!
5. Serve!
Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the delicious Korean beef over bowls of cooked white rice, which will soak up all that yummy sauce.
6. Garnish:
Add sliced green onions on top for a fresh crunch and color. Enjoy your homemade Easy Korean Beef!
This recipe is not just simple; it’s bursting with flavor and sure to please everyone at the dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Korean Beef Recipe
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well as a leaner alternative. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as these might require slightly less cooking than beef.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Just adjust the amount to taste, as these alternatives can have different sweetness levels.
How Do I Store Leftover Korean Beef?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help restore moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add some Sriracha or another hot sauce to taste. Just be sure to start small and adjust as you go!
