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Korean Spicy Beef Bowls

Korean Spicy Beef Bowls: A Warm Dinner to Savor Tonight

Korean Spicy Beef Bowls feature tender beef in a zesty gochujang sauce with vibrant vegetables for a delightful dinner experience.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Mixture
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Main protein source; provides richness and a hearty texture.
  • 3 tablespoons Gochujang Essential Korean chili paste; adds heat and depth to the dish.
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Brings the umami and saltiness that enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar Balances the spice with a touch of acidity; apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Adds a hint of sweetness to the sauce; you can also use honey or agave syrup for variations.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Aromatic base key for flavor enhancement.
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger (minced) Provides warmth and freshness; fresh ginger root is recommended for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for those who crave an extra kick; adjust according to your spice preference.
For Serving
  • 4 cups Cooked Rice A comforting base that absorbs the flavorful sauce; short-grain rice is ideal.
  • 1 cup Carrots (shredded) Offers a crunchy, sweet contrast to the beef.
  • 1 cup Cucumbers (sliced) Adds freshness and balance; pickled cucumbers can provide a delightful tang.
  • 1 cup Kimchi A traditional side that contributes a crunchy, fermented tang.
  • 2 tablespoons Green Onions Fresh garnish that adds a mild onion flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds Adds a nutty crunch; while optional, they elevate the dish’s presentation.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant and shimmering.
  2. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5 minutes until browned and slightly crispy.
  3. Incorporate 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger into the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in 3 tablespoons of gochujang, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
  5. Divide cooked short-grain rice among serving bowls, creating a base. Top each bowl with the spicy beef mixture.
  6. Layer on shredded carrots and sliced cucumbers over the beef, and add kimchi on top.
  7. Sprinkle fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the bowls and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure the ground beef is spread evenly in the skillet for proper caramelization. Adjust spice levels to taste, and consider meal prepping the components for easy weeknight dinners.

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