Easy Korean Bulgogi Recipe Ground Beef For Dinner
As a busy working mom, I often scramble to make a tasty meal after a long day. That’s why I’m excited to share this easy Korean Bulgogi recipe. It’s a flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights, using ground beef instead of steak.
I grew up loving Bulgogi’s rich, savory-sweet flavors. But the long prep time made it a special occasion dish. Now, with this ground beef Bulgogi recipe, I can enjoy those flavors quickly. It’s a big change for our dinner routine.
Table of Contents
What is Korean Bulgogi and Its Traditional Origins
Bulgogi, meaning “fire meat” in Korean, is a dish loved by many. It has a long history, dating back to the Goguryeo era (37 BC–668 AD). The way it was cooked changed over time, becoming a grilled dish during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897).
Understanding Bulgogi’s Cultural Significance
Korean Bulgogi was once a special dish for the Korean nobility. It was made with tender ribeye steak. Today, beef bulgogi stir fry and korean ground beef recipe are enjoyed all over the world.
Traditional vs Modern Preparation Methods
The old way of making Bulgogi involved marinating and grilling thin beef slices. Now, a quicker version like ground beef bulgogi is popular. This version keeps the dish’s flavors by using a marinade with soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
“★★★★★ REVIEW: The deliciousness of this dish when served over white rice is hard to beat!”
This beef bulgogi stir fry recipe is both authentic and easy to make. It’s perfect for everyday meals, letting you enjoy a piece of Korean culture at home.
Essential Ingredients for Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Making a true Korean ground beef bulgogi needs careful picking of ingredients. At its core are lean ground beef, soy sauce, and brown sugar. These form the marinade’s base. Fragrant garlic, zesty ginger, and a hint of red pepper flakes add depth and a touch of heat.
Onions, green onions, and mushrooms are added for texture and flavor. They enhance the dish’s taste and feel. Serving it over fluffy rice is traditional. Sesame seeds and kimchi complete it, adding authenticity.
Key Ingredients | Quantity |
---|---|
Lean Ground Beef | 1 lb |
Soy Sauce | 1/4 cup |
Brown Sugar | 1/4 cup |
Sesame Oil | 2 tsp |
Garlic, minced | 2 tsp |
Ginger, grated | 1/2 tsp |
Red Pepper Flakes | 1/2 tsp |
Onions, sliced | 1 cup |
Green Onions, sliced | 1/2 cup |
Mushrooms, sliced | 1 cup |
Cooked Jasmine Rice | 2 cups |
Sesame Seeds | 1/2 tsp |
Kimchi | 1/2 cup |
This mix of ingredients brings together sweet, savory, and a hint of heat. It’s the essence of ground beef bulgogi. This recipe is versatile, great as a main dish, in wraps, or tacos. It’s a wonderful addition to your cooking.
Crafting the Perfect Bulgogi Marinade
Creating the ultimate bulgogi recipe ground beef starts with the marinade. This mix turns simple ground beef into a true korean beef bowl. Let’s dive into the essential parts and methods for making the best bulgogi marinade.
Key Marinade Components
The perfect bulgogi marinade combines these key ingredients:
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Mirin (Japanese rice wine)
- Oyster sauce
- Minced garlic
- Toasted sesame oil
- Black pepper
Proper Marination Techniques
For the best taste, mix the marinade ingredients first. Then, add them to the ground beef and mushrooms. This way, the flavors spread evenly. Let the meat marinate for at least 15 minutes, or even overnight for a stronger flavor.
Storage Tips for Marinade
You can make the marinade ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Or, freeze it for even longer. This makes it easy to prepare a tasty korean beef bowl whenever you want.
With the right marinade, you’re ready to make a delicious bulgogi recipe ground beef. It will take you straight to Korea with every bite.
Bulgogi Recipe Ground Beef Step-by-Step Guide
Making the tasty easy bulgogi ground beef is simple and rewarding. Start by cooking white rice to serve as the base. While the rice cooks, prepare the veggies and the marinade.
First, chop onions, green onions, and veggies like broccoli or bell peppers. Set them aside. Then, mix the ground beef with soy sauce, brown sugar, rice wine, grated pear or apple, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours. This lets the flavors mix and the meat get tender.
When it’s time to cook, heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high. Add oil and sauté the onions until they’re clear. Then, add the marinated easy bulgogi ground beef and cook, stirring often, for about 12 minutes. Let the beef caramelize and break into smaller pieces.
To finish, stir in green onions and chili peppers if using. Add a bit of sesame oil on top. Serve the beef bulgogi stir fry over rice, with sesame seeds and kimchi on the side for a true Korean taste.
This guide helps you make the bold, savory-sweet easy bulgogi ground beef at home. Enjoy this quick and tasty Korean dinner!
Tips for Achieving Authentic Korean Flavors
To get the true taste of korean ground beef recipe, mix sweet and savory well in your marinade. Brown sugar or pear adds natural sweetness. Soy sauce and oyster sauce bring out the umami. Adjust garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
Sesame oil gives bulgogi style ground beef its unique nutty taste. Use it carefully. Adding a bit of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) can make the flavor richer. Keep tasting and adjusting as you cook for the perfect mix of sweet, salty, and umami.
Balancing Sweet and Savory Elements
- Leverage brown sugar or Asian pear to add natural sweetness
- Complement the sweetness with savory soy sauce and oyster sauce
- Adjust garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to your taste preferences
Seasoning Adjustments for Perfect Taste
- Use sesame oil sparingly to capture its distinctive nutty aroma
- Consider adding a touch of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) for deeper flavor
- Taste and fine-tune the seasoning as you cook to achieve the ideal balance
Mastering sweet and savory balance will help you make bulgogi style ground beef just like in Korea.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Enjoying ground beef bulgogi can be endless fun! Serve it over steamed white rice for a classic look. Or, try brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
No Korean beef bowl is complete without banchan, traditional side dishes. Some favorites include:
- Spicy kimchi, a fermented cabbage dish full of probiotics and flavor
- Stir-fried or steamed veggies like broccoli, asparagus, and spinach
- Pickled radish, carrots, and other crunchy veggies for a refreshing touch
- Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for extra taste and looks
For a heartier meal, pair bulgogi beef bowls with Korean-style soup or fried rice. The bulgogi flavors mix well with these comforting sides, making for a satisfying Korean meal.
Bulgogi is all about trying new things. Mix and match sides and presentation to match your taste and diet. The goal is to balance the bold korean beef bowl flavors with textures and tastes for a great meal.
Meal Prep and Storage Guidelines
The Korean bulgogi ground beef recipe is great for meal prep. Divide the cooked rice and beef into microwave-safe containers. Add your favorite veggies for a balanced meal. These meals can stay in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.
Freezing and Reheating Instructions
Before freezing, let the bulgogi cool down completely. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, microwave until it’s hot. This makes it easy to enjoy bulgogi’s bold flavors anytime.
Portion Control Tips
Divide the bulgogi ground beef into 4 servings for better portion control. Each serving has about 280 calories, 52g carbs, 28g protein, and 7g fat. This balanced meal keeps your nutrition goals in check while enjoying Korean bulgogi’s taste.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 52g |
Protein | 28g |
Fat | 7g |
Saturated Fat | 1g |
Cholesterol | 46mg |
Sodium | 852mg |
Potassium | 811mg |
Fiber | 4g |
Sugar | 15g |
By following these meal prep and storage tips, you can enjoy bulgogi ground beef anytime. It helps with portion control and meal planning.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
This bulgogi recipe ground beef dish is not just tasty. It’s also packed with nutrients. A serving has about 633-738 calories. It has 47-55g of protein, 58-68g of carbs, and 21-25g of fat.
The korean ground beef recipe is full of B vitamins from the beef. The veggies add fiber and many micronutrients. Using lean beef keeps the fat low. The garlic and ginger in the marinade may help fight inflammation.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 633-738 kcal |
Protein | 47-55g |
Carbohydrates | 58-68g |
Fat | 21-25g |
For a healthier twist, serve the korean ground beef recipe with brown rice. Add more veggies too. This makes the meal even better for you.
“This bulgogi recipe ground beef is a game-changer! It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and surprisingly healthy. I’ll be adding this to my weekly meal rotation for sure.”
Conclusion
This easy Korean ground beef bulgogi recipe is a tasty and quick option. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The ground beef makes it more uniform than traditional bulgogi.
The marinade can be stored for up to 5 days in the fridge. This lets the flavors blend well, making it easy to prepare. It’s great for family meals or a satisfying solo option.
This recipe is balanced with protein, carbs, and veggies. It’s a healthy meal choice. You can also customize it to your taste, making it a versatile dish for your kitchen.
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