Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1½ lbs ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
For Serving
- Cooked white or brown rice
- Shredded carrots
- Sliced cucumber
- Green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking apart with a spatula. Drain excess grease to ensure a less greasy final dish.
- Add aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until fragrant, to build the flavor base.
- Mix the sauce: Stir in the brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes, combining everything evenly with the beef.
- Simmer the mixture: Let the beef and sauce simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Thicken the sauce (optional): If a thicker sauce is preferred, stir in the cornstarch slurry made from cornstarch and water. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Assemble the bowls: Spoon the savory beef mixture over warm bowls of cooked white or brown rice to create the base of your dish.
- Add toppings: Top each bowl with shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for crunch and freshness.
Notes
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef for a leaner option.
- For low-carb bowls, serve the beef mixture over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
- Add steamed or sautéed broccoli or snap peas for extra vegetables and nutrients.
- This dish is excellent for meal prep and keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
