Go Back

Korean BBQ Ground Beef Rice Bowls - A Quick And Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the beef:
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 works best)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (use low sodium if you prefer)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) or sriracha
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds for garnish
  • For serving:
  • 2 cups cooked white rice (short grain is best)
  • Optional toppings: kimchi, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, a fried egg

Method
 

  1. Cook the rice. Start your rice first so it is ready when the beef finishes. Use a rice cooker or stovetop method.
  2. Brown the beef. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until no longer pink. Break it into small crumbles. Drain off any excess fat.
  3. Add aromatics. Push the beef to one side of the pan. Add the sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then stir everything together.
  4. Make the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and gochujang. Pour this mixture over the beef.
  5. Simmer and caramelize. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir occasionally so the sugar does not burn. The sauce will thicken and coat the beef nicely.
  6. Assemble the bowls. Divide the cooked rice into bowls. Spoon the Korean BBQ beef on top. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Add any extra toppings you like.
  7. Serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh.