Korean-Style Beef and Rice Bowl | YumAndJoy

Korean-Style Beef and Rice Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Korean-style beef and rice bowl is a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of sweet and savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds creates a deliciously balanced dish. It’s easy to make, great for meal prep, and can be customized with your favorite toppings like kimchi or a fried egg.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ground beef
  • Cooked white rice (or brown rice)
  • Soy sauce
  • Brown sugar
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Ginger (grated)
  • Sesame oil
  • Green onions (chopped)
  • Sesame seeds
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Kimchi (optional, for serving)

Directions

  1. Cook Rice: Prepare the rice according to package instructions. Keep warm.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
  4. Simmer: Pour the sauce over the beef and stir well. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the beef absorbs the flavors. Add red pepper flakes if using.
  5. Assemble: Serve the beef over a bowl of warm rice.
  6. Garnish & Serve: Top with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and kimchi if desired. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

  • Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a different take.
  • Spicy Version: Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) or extra red pepper flakes.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
  • Extra Veggies: Stir in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in a skillet over low heat.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked beef in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the beef and store it separately from the rice. Reheat and assemble when ready to serve.

What’s the best rice to use?

White rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice all work well.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, honey or maple syrup can be used instead of brown sugar.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has mild heat, but you can adjust the spice level by adding or omitting red pepper flakes.

Can I add an egg on top?

Yes! A fried or soft-boiled egg adds extra richness to the dish.

What can I serve with this?

Steamed vegetables, kimchi, or a simple cucumber salad pair well.

Can I double the recipe for meal prep?

Absolutely! Store in portioned containers for easy grab-and-go meals.

Can I use fresh ginger instead of grated?

Yes, finely minced fresh ginger works just as well.

How do I keep the beef from drying out?

Don’t overcook it, and make sure to let it simmer in the sauce to keep it juicy.

Conclusion

This Korean-style beef and rice bowl is a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Try different variations, spice it up to your liking, and enjoy a quick homemade Korean-inspired meal in just 20 minutes!

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Korean-Style Beef and Rice Bowl

Korean-Style Beef and Rice Bowl


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  • Author: asma
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Korean-Style Beef and Rice Bowl is a quick and flavorful meal featuring sweet and savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a touch of spice. Topped with green onions, sesame seeds, and optional kimchi, this easy dish is perfect for meal prep or a busy weeknight dinner!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Beef:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For Serving:

  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 1/2 cup kimchi (optional)
  • 1 fried egg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.
  2. Add Seasonings: Stir in garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until well combined and fragrant.
  3. Prepare the Rice: While the beef is cooking, prepare rice according to package instructions.
  4. Assemble the Bowls: Divide rice into bowls and top with the seasoned beef.
  5. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Add kimchi or a fried egg on top for extra flavor. Serve immediately!

Notes

  • Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein.
  • Adjust sweetness or spice level by modifying brown sugar and red pepper flakes.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Rice Bowl
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
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