Discover this quick and delicious ground beef bulgogi recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into an authentic Korean dinner in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights
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Easy Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe for Dinner
As the sun sets, the smell of sizzling beef and spices fills the air. It’s time for a delicious Korean meal. My family loved bulgogi, a traditional Korean dish. Now, I’m sharing a simple version for your weeknight dinner.
This ground beef bulgogi recipe is perfect for busy cooks. It uses ground beef to make a tasty meal in 15-20 minutes. The secret is a mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and spices that give it that Korean flavor.
Whether you love Korean food or are new to it, this recipe will wow you. Serve it with white rice, scallions, sesame seeds, and a soft-boiled egg. Enjoy the rich, caramelized taste of this Korean classic in your kitchen.
Key Takeaways
- Quick and easy ground beef bulgogi recipe ready in 15-20 minutes
- Transforms everyday ingredients into an authentic Korean dinner
- Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests
- Served with fluffy white rice, scallions, sesame seeds, and a soft-boiled egg
- Inspired by the viral TikTok recipe from @franziee09
What Is Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi
Bulgogi, known as “fire meat,” is a favorite Korean dish. It started with thinly sliced ribeye or top sirloin, marinated in a sweet sauce. Then, it was grilled over hot charcoal. Now, a modern twist uses ground beef.
Traditional vs Modern Preparation Methods
The old way of making bulgogi takes hours or even a whole day. The meat is sliced thin, marinated, and grilled over high heat. This makes it juicy inside and caramelized outside. The ground beef version, on the other hand, is quicker. It can be cooked on the stovetop in just 20 minutes.
The History of Bulgogi (‘Fire Meat’)
Bulgogi’s roots go back over a thousand years. Korean royalty and nobles loved it as a special dish. The name “bulgogi” means “fire meat,” because it was grilled over hot charcoal. Over time, it became a key part of Korean cuisine.
Why Ground Beef Makes This Recipe Special
The ground beef version may not be traditional, but it has its perks. It’s cheaper and quicker to make, yet still tastes like beef bulgogi. It’s also a leaner option, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Key Ingredients for Authentic Bulgogi Flavor
Making the perfect Korean ground beef bulgogi starts with the right ingredients. The base is a savory bulgogi sauce. It’s made from soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Fresh ginger and minced garlic add depth and complexity to the marinade.
For the best texture, use lean ground beef, about 90% lean. This balance of meat and fat makes it juicy and tender. A diced yellow onion adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the dish.
Scallions and sesame seeds are key for color and crunch. Soft-boiled eggs add a luxurious touch, blending their creamy yolks with the savory flavors.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Soy sauce | Provides umami and saltiness |
| Rice wine vinegar | Adds tanginess and brightness |
| Brown sugar | Lends sweetness and caramelization |
| Sesame oil | Imparts nutty, aromatic notes |
| Fresh ginger | Infuses the dish with warmth and spice |
| Minced garlic | Enhances the savory, umami character |
| Ground beef (90% lean) | Provides the base for the bulgogi |
| Yellow onion | Adds sweetness and depth of flavor |
| Scallions | Offer a fresh, vibrant garnish |
| Sesame seeds | Contribute crunch and nutty accents |
| Soft-boiled eggs (optional) | Provide a luxurious, creamy element |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious ground beef bulgogi. It will taste just like traditional Korean flavors.
Essential Kitchen Tools and Equipment
To make a tasty Korean ground beef bulgogi, you need some key tools and equipment. The right cookware and utensils help get the perfect texture and flavor.
Recommended Cookware
A large, heavy-bottomed skillet is crucial for this recipe. It helps cook the ground beef and sauce ingredients evenly. You’ll also need a medium-sized bowl for mixing the marinade.
Measuring Tools and Utensils
- Measuring cups and spoons are key for getting the right flavor balance. They help you measure ingredients accurately.
- A sharp knife and cutting board are needed for chopping onions, garlic, and other ingredients.
- Optional tools include a pot for boiling eggs, a slotted spoon for removing eggs, and a bowl for an ice water bath.
With the right tools and kitchen essentials, you’ll be on your way to making great Korean ground beef bulgogi.
Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe – Step by Step Instructions
Get ready to make a delicious Korean ground beef bulgogi with this step-by-step guide. This easy version of the classic dish uses ground beef instead of thin slices. It still packs the bold flavors of traditional bulgogi.
- In a big skillet or wok, warm a tablespoon of oil on medium-high heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s completely browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, brown sugar, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes to make the flavorful bulgogi sauce. Pour the sauce over the cooked ground beef and toss to coat. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Remove the Korean ground beef bulgogi from heat and garnish with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or in lettuce wraps for a complete easy Korean recipe.
This ground beef bulgogi is a quick and tasty dinner option for any weeknight. It brings the rich, savory flavors of traditional bulgogi right to your table. Follow this step-by-step guide for a easy Korean recipe that everyone will enjoy!
Making the Perfect Bulgogi Sauce
Making a homemade bulgogi sauce is key to getting the rich flavors of Korean marinade. This simple sauce is the base for your sauce preparation. It takes the ground beef to a whole new level.
Sauce Ingredients and Proportions
To make the perfect bulgogi sauce, you’ll need a few ingredients:
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
For more depth, add 2-3 tablespoons of sweet rice wine (mirim) and 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper.
Mixing and Storage Tips
Just mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl and whisk until the sugar dissolves. The homemade bulgogi sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. It’s perfect for your Korean marinade needs.
“The key to a truly authentic Korean marinade lies in the balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors in the sauce. This recipe nails it perfectly.”
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
To make your Korean ground beef bulgogi perfect, focus on the details. Choose lean ground beef, about 90% lean, for a healthier and tasty dish. Start by cooking the onions and garlic first. This step creates a strong flavor base for the beef.
When adding the ground beef, cook it just until it’s browned. Overcooking can make the beef tough. This way, you keep it tender.
After browning the beef, let the savory sauce simmer. This step lets the flavors mix and get richer. Add a bit of brown sugar to adjust the sweetness. As the sauce thickens, it will pack more flavor.
- Use lean ground beef (90%) for a healthier option with rich flavor
- Cook onions and garlic first to build a flavorful base
- Don’t overcook the beef to maintain tenderness
- Simmer the sauce with the beef to allow flavors to meld
- Adjust sweetness with brown sugar to suit your taste preferences
- Let the sauce reduce slightly for a more concentrated flavor
By following these tips, you’ll make your Korean ground beef bulgogi amazing. It will be full of authentic flavors and texture. Enjoy every bite and the lovely smells in your kitchen.
Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments
When serving your Korean ground beef bulgogi, you have many options to make it even better. Try serving it over steamed white rice or multigrain rice. This helps the flavorful sauce soak into the rice perfectly.
Rice Pairings
- Steamed white rice
- Multigrain rice
- Cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option)
Vegetable Side Dishes
Pair the bulgogi with fresh, crunchy vegetables. Here are some great choices:
- Kimchi (traditional Korean fermented cabbage)
- Sautéed spinach or bok choy
- Stir-fried bell peppers and onions
- Pickled or quick-marinated cucumber salad
Garnishing Options
Top your bulgogi bowl with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. They add color and texture. For extra richness, add a soft-boiled egg. The runny yolk mixes well with the savory bulgogi and rice.
| Garnish | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Chopped green onions | Adds fresh flavor and color |
| Toasted sesame seeds | Provides nutty crunch |
| Soft-boiled egg | Adds creaminess and richness |
With these Korean side dishes, rice pairings, and garnishes, your bulgogi bowl will look and taste amazing. It’s sure to impress your taste buds.
How to Make Perfect Soft-Boiled Eggs for Bulgogi
Make your Korean ground beef bulgogi dish even better by mastering soft-boiled eggs. These eggs add a silky touch to the bulgogi’s savory flavors. It makes for a perfect, satisfying meal.
For the best soft-boiled eggs, use slightly older eggs. They’re easier to peel, making your dish look great. Start by boiling water in a saucepan. Then, gently add the eggs and set a timer for 6 minutes.
While the eggs cook, get an ice bath ready. This will cool them down fast, making peeling easy. After 6 minutes, move the eggs to the ice bath. Allow them to cool for several minutes prior to peeling.
Peel the eggs gently to reveal their soft-boiled beauty. You’ll see a creamy white and a silky yolk. The yolk’s richness contrasts beautifully with the bulgogi topping.
Place the soft-boiled eggs next to your Korean ground beef bulgogi. The yolks will mix with the dish’s flavors. This simple egg trick makes your bulgogi even more enjoyable.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoying leftover Korean ground beef bulgogi is easy with the right food storage and reheating methods. Here are some simple tips to keep the taste and texture great:
After cooking your bulgogi, let it cool down completely. Then, put it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To extend its shelf life, you can freeze it for as long as 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
There are a few ways to reheat your leftover bulgogi. For the best taste, heat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir it now and then until it’s warm. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until it’s hot.
| Storage Method | Maximum Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 days |
| Freezer | 3 months |
Whether you’re reheating a small amount or meal-prepping for the week, these storage and reheating methods will help. Your leftover Korean ground beef bulgogi will stay delicious. Enjoy your tasty leftovers with ease!
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Korean ground beef bulgogi is a balanced and satisfying meal. It has 22 grams of high-quality protein content per serving. It’s also low in carbs, with only 13 grams per serving, making it great for a balanced meal.
Lean beef, the main ingredient, is packed with vitamins and minerals. It has heme iron, vitamin B12, zinc, choline, and B vitamins. These nutrients are key for immune function, energy, and making red blood cells.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 386 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Fat | 27 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 81 mg |
| Sodium | 1,149 mg |
| Potassium | 394 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
Bulgogi can be part of a balanced meal with sides like steamed broccoli or a fresh salad. Adjusting portion sizes helps you enjoy its flavors while staying healthy.
“Lean beef, the main ingredient in bulgogi, is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. This includes heme iron, vitamin B12, zinc, choline, and a variety of B vitamins.”
Time-Saving Tips and Meal Prep Ideas
Make meal planning easier and quick dinners a breeze with these tips. Korean ground beef bulgogi can be made fast and healthy. A few simple strategies will get you delicious meals ready in no time.
Make-Ahead Options
Make the bulgogi sauce ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. This saves a lot of time when you’re making your meal. You can also cook more ground beef and freeze it in portions. Just thaw and reheat it with your favorite sides when you’re ready.
Batch Cooking Suggestions
Make double the recipe for extra meals that last all week. Use the bulgogi in stuffed peppers, lettuce wraps, or over cauliflower rice. Chopping veggies early makes cooking faster and meal prep easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Korean ground beef bulgogi?
Korean ground beef bulgogi is a quick version of the traditional Korean dish bulgogi. It uses ground beef instead of thinly sliced meat. This recipe turns everyday ingredients into a delicious Korean dinner in just 15-20 minutes.
How does ground beef bulgogi differ from traditional bulgogi?
Ground beef bulgogi is easier and cheaper than the traditional version. It still has the sweet and savory flavors of the classic dish. This version is quicker to make and satisfies your cravings fast.
What are the key ingredients in an authentic bulgogi sauce?
The key ingredients for bulgogi sauce are soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and brown sugar. You also need sesame oil, fresh ginger, and minced garlic. Optional ingredients include sweet rice wine (mirim) and pepper.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make ground beef bulgogi?
You’ll need a skillet for cooking the beef and sauce. A medium bowl is for mixing the sauce. You’ll also need measuring spoons and cups, a knife, and a cutting board.
Optional tools include a pot for boiling eggs, a slotted spoon, and a bowl for an ice water bath.
How do you make the perfect soft-boiled eggs for a bulgogi bowl?
Start by boiling water, then add eggs and cover for 6 minutes. Prepare an ice water bath. Take out the eggs using a slotted spoon and let them cool.
Peel the eggs when they’re cool enough. This makes the whites custard-like and the yolk silky, adding richness to the bowl.
How should ground beef bulgogi be stored and reheated?
Store ground beef bulgogi in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. For extended storage, keep it frozen for as long as 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What are the health benefits of ground beef bulgogi?
Ground beef bulgogi is a healthy option. It’s high in protein, vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron. Using lean ground beef and balanced meal components make it a nutritious choice for dinner.