Print

Quick Savory Korean Ground Beef Rice Bowl

korean ground beef rice bowl - featured image

A quick and easy Korean ground beef rice bowl with a savory-sweet sauce, perfect for busy weeknights. This comforting dish combines browned beef with a flavorful soy-garlic sauce served over warm rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean to medium fat ground beef
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp freshly grated ginger (optional)
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups cooked white rice (Jasmine or short-grain)
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (can substitute canola or avocado oil)

Instructions

  1. Cook the rice: Rinse 2 cups (400g) of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions in a rice cooker or on the stove for about 15-20 minutes. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp grated ginger (if using), 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Set aside.
  3. Brown the beef: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Add the sauce: Pour the sauce over the cooked beef in the skillet. Stir well to coat evenly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and beef is glazed.
  5. Assemble the bowls: Divide warm rice between four bowls. Spoon the savory Korean ground beef over the rice.
  6. Garnish: Sprinkle with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Optionally, add a fried egg on top for extra richness.

Notes

If the sauce is too salty or thick, add a splash of water to loosen it. Do not stir the beef too often while browning to allow caramelization. Fresh garlic and ginger are recommended for best flavor. Sesame oil is potent; use sparingly. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari. For a vegetarian version, use crumbled tofu or cooked lentils. Adding gochujang adds a spicy kick.

Nutrition

Keywords: Korean ground beef, rice bowl, quick dinner, savory beef, easy recipe, weeknight meal, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar