Ground Beef Bulgogi Korean (Printable View)

Speedy Korean-style ground beef with sweet, savory sauce, served over rice and crisp green onion garnish.

# Ingredient List:

→ Protein

01 - 1 pound ground beef (85% lean recommended)

→ Marinade & Sauce

02 - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
03 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
04 - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
05 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 inch fresh ginger, grated (about 1 tablespoon)
08 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
09 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

→ Vegetables & Garnish

10 - 4 green onions, thinly sliced (whites for cooking, greens for garnish)
11 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
12 - 1 small carrot, julienned or shredded, optional
13 - 1 cup cooked white or brown rice, for serving
14 - Sliced cucumber or lettuce leaves, optional for serving

# How to Make It:

01 - In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved and set aside.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until evenly browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
03 - Stir in the white portions of the green onions and carrot (if using). Sauté for approximately 2 minutes, until just tender.
04 - Pour the marinade into the skillet over the beef and vegetables. Mix thoroughly and allow to simmer for 5 to 6 minutes, letting the beef absorb the flavors and the sauce reduce slightly.
05 - Serve hot over cooked rice. Garnish with the green tops of the green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Optionally, add sliced cucumber or serve with lettuce leaves for a lighter variation.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Quick weeknight dinner that is on the table in under half an hour
  • All ingredients are common pantry items or easy to find
  • Easily customizable with whatever veggies you have
  • Balanced umami flavor that appeals to kids and adults alike
  • One pan means minimal cleanup
02 -
  • Excellent source of protein and iron
  • Ideal for meal prep and lunchboxes
  • Naturally dairy free and easy to make gluten free with tamari
03 -
  • Let your skillet get very hot before adding beef to develop maximum flavor Browning is key
  • Grate ginger and garlic on a microplane so the flavor infuses the sauce more evenly
  • Whisk the sauce until the sugar is totally dissolved No gritty crystals should remain or the dish will not glaze correctly
  • Taste as you go A splash more vinegar or sugar can make all the difference depending on your preference

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