Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further than this easy Beef Bulgogi recipe using ground beef! This Korean classic is typically made with thinly sliced ribeye, but we’ve adapted it for a quicker weeknight dinner using ground beef, without sacrificing any of the incredible flavor. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights, perfect for a healthy and delicious meal the whole family will love. Get ready to experience the umami explosion of this simplified, yet authentic-tasting, Bulgogi!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (Gochugaru), or to taste (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
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Marinate the beef: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and Korean chili flakes (if using). Mix thoroughly, ensuring the ground beef is evenly coated with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a deeper flavor. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful your Bulgogi will be.
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Sauté the onions: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and slightly caramelized, about 3-5 minutes.
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Cook the Bulgogi: Add the marinated ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Break up any large clumps of beef with a spatula. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to cook the ground beef thoroughly to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
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Serve and enjoy: Once the beef is cooked, remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Beef Bulgogi:
- Don't overcook the beef: Ground beef cooks quickly. Overcooking can make it dry and tough. Cook until it's browned and cooked through, but still juicy.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder Bulgogi, reduce or omit the Korean chili flakes. For extra heat, add more!
- Marinade time is key: Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes will significantly enhance the flavor. For best results, marinate for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of your Bulgogi will be greatly enhanced by using high-quality soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh ginger and garlic.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to your Bulgogi for a more complete and nutritious meal. Add them to the skillet along with the onions.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Serve it differently: Instead of rice, serve your Bulgogi in lettuce wraps or on top of noodles.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used. It's best to use a nutrition calculator for a more precise value.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy Beef Bulgogi recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and a great way to explore the wonderful world of homemade cooking and delicious dishes. Enjoy!