Korean Ground Beef Bowl (25 Minutes): A Complete Guide to a Fast, Flavorful Classic
The Korean Ground Beef Bowl is a quick and satisfying meal that features savory ground beef seasoned with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, served over fluffy rice. With endless possibilities for customization and sides, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for optimal flavor)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice (jasmine, basmati, or brown rice)
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, sliced cucumber, kimchi, or pickled vegetables
- Optional vegetables: bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or spinach
- Optional: fried egg for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice (Stove): Rinse 1 cup rice until water runs clear. Combine with 2 cups water, bring to boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15 minutes. Let sit 5 minutes, then fluff.
- Rice Cooker: Add rinsed rice and water and cook according to cooker instructions.
- Instant Pot: Combine rinsed rice and water, cook on high pressure 3 minutes, then natural release.
- Brown Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat cook beef 5–7 minutes until no longer pink.
- Add Aromatics: Drain excess fat. Add garlic and ginger; cook 1–2 minutes.
- Season: Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer a few minutes.
- Assemble: Add rice to bowl, top with beef mixture.
- Finish: Add vegetables, sesame seeds, extra green onions, kimchi, or fried egg if desired.
Notes
- Use low-sodium soy sauce if you want less salt.
- Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef.
- Add extra vegetables to increase nutrition.