Can I make this Korean ground beef bowl less salty?

Yes! Use low-sodium soy sauce and start with just 1 tablespoon, adding more to taste. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice or a splash of rice vinegar to balance the saltiness with acidity.

What can I substitute for sesame oil?

While sesame oil provides authentic Korean flavor, you can use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil plus a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for similar nutty flavor. Just know it won't be quite as rich and aromatic.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work great as leaner alternatives. Since they're drier than beef, add an extra teaspoon of sesame oil or a tablespoon of water to keep the meat moist and flavorful in your Korean ground beef bowl.

Amazing Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe (Ready in Just 20 Minutes!)

Name: Korean Ground Beef Bowl
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (lean); 3 tablespoons brown sugar; 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium if you prefer); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger); 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower); Optional toppings: green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, cucumber slices

Korean Ground Beef Bowl

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Fast and flavorful Korean ground beef bowl with sweet and savory flavors. Ready in 20 minutes and perfect over rice.

Author: Sarah Mae Carter
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Sauté
Cuisine: Korean

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (lean)
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium if you prefer)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
Optional toppings: green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, cucumber slices

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Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Let everything simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors can soak in.
Serve hot over cooked rice and top with your favorite veggies, sesame seeds, or green onions.

Notes

Make it meal prep-friendly: Double the batch and keep portions in the fridge for up to 4 days – it reheats beautifully.
Try a fried egg on top: It adds an extra layer of richness.
Use fresh garlic and ginger if possible: It makes a noticeable difference in the flavor.
Low-Carb Swap: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice to keep it keto-friendly.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 380 kcal
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 650 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg

Find it online: https://www.benefitiany.com/amazing-korean-ground-beef-bowl/