Korean Ground Beef Stir-Fry

Korean cuisine offers a delightful array of flavors and textures, and a quick weeknight dinner doesn’t have to sacrifice taste for convenience. Enter Korean Ground Beef Stir-Fry—a dish that seamlessly marries the savory depth of ground beef with vibrant vegetables, all brought together with a rich, spicy-sweet sauce. Perfect served over steamed rice or noodles, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it a go-to for busy families and food lovers alike.

Top Reasons to Make Korean Ground Beef Stir-Fry

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and gochujang creates a mouthwatering sauce that coats the tender beef and crisp vegetables.
• Customizable: You can easily modify the veggies or the level of spice to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Healthy and Wholesome: With lean ground beef and a variety of colorful vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Great for Meal Prep: It stores well and can be made in larger batches for leftovers, perfect for lunches or quick dinners.

Gather These Ingredients

• 1/4 cup soy sauce or low-sodium soy sauce: This is the base of your flavor profile.
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar: Adds a rich sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Provides a lovely nutty flavor that enhances the stir-fry.
• 1 tablespoon gochujang: A Korean chili paste that brings heat and depth to the dish.
• 1 lb ground beef (85% to 93% lean): The main protein that will absorb all the delicious flavors.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or canola: Used for cooking the beef and vegetables.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and texture.
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped: Introduces vibrant color and crunch.
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and shredded: Adds sweetness and nutrition.
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced: Provides umami flavor and a meaty texture.
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced: A must-have for aromatic flavor.
• 2 teaspoons ginger, fresh, minced: Adds a refreshing kick.
• 1/4 cup scallions, chopped: For garnish and a burst of fresh flavor.
• Steamed rice or cooked noodles: To serve as the base for your stir-fry.
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: For finishing touches and added crunch.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large skillet or wok: Essential for stir-frying the ingredients quickly and evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and breaking up the ground beef.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables.
• Serving bowls: To present your delicious dish.

Korean Ground Beef Stir-Fry Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, dark brown sugar, sesame oil, and gochujang until well combined. Set this sauce aside as it will be added later to enrich the flavors of your stir-fry.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics

To the skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate the Vegetables

Add the chopped red bell pepper, shredded carrots, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften but still retain some crunch.

Step 5: Pour in the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir to coat everything evenly and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped scallions. Serve the Korean Ground Beef Stir-Fry over steamed rice or cooked noodles, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for that final touch of flavor and texture.

Make It Your Way

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini.
• Protein Alternatives: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your heat preference; you can even omit it for a milder flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: Try serving the stir-fry in lettuce wraps for a fresh and fun meal option!

Things That Go Wrong

As with any recipe, things can sometimes go awry. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooked Vegetables: Make sure to stir-fry the vegetables just until tender to keep their vibrant color and crunch.
• Too Salty: If using regular soy sauce, be cautious with how much you add, as it can make the dish overly salty.
• Dry Ground Beef: Using leaner ground beef can lead to a drier dish; ensure not to overcook it.
• Not Enough Sauce: If you prefer a saucier stir-fry, consider doubling the sauce ingredients for extra flavor.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Korean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is perfect for meal prep. Here are some tips:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring back moisture.
• Freezing: This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Lunch Ideas: Pack it in a lunchbox with rice or noodles for a delicious midday meal.

Korean Ground Beef Stir-Fry FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like crumbled tofu for a meatless version.

What can I serve with this stir-fry?

This stir-fry is fantastic over steamed rice or cooked noodles. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, add more gochujang or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You can also include sliced fresh chili peppers.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stir-fry ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few days, or freeze it for later use.

Weekend Projects

• Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta – A comforting pasta dish that brings creamy goodness to the table.
• Loaded Ground Beef Nacho Casserole – A fun and hearty casserole perfect for gatherings.
• One Pot Beef Stroganoff Pasta – A rich and creamy dish that’s all made in one pot!

Before You Go

If you’re looking for a dish that is not only easy to whip up but also delivers on flavor, Korean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a fantastic choice. With its savory notes and vibrant veggies, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t forget to get creative with your ingredients! Happy cooking!