ground beef bulgogi recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about the sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors of Korean bulgogi. The tender marinated beef, sizzling on a hot skillet, fills your kitchen with a mouth-watering aroma that promises something unforgettable. But what if you could make this beloved dish in a fraction of the time? Welcome to Ground Beef Bulgogi, the fast, flavorful, and easy version of a classic Korean favorite. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick dinner, a food enthusiast eager to try new recipes, or someone who loves Korean cuisine, this dish is sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll show you how to make a quick and delicious ground beef bulgogi recipe that you can whip up in less than 30 minutes. From understanding what makes bulgogi so special, to preparing the perfect marinade and cooking it to perfection, you’ll learn everything you need to know to bring this incredible dish into your kitchen. Ready? Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
What Is Ground Beef Bulgogi? A Tasty Korean Twist on a Classic
A Brief Introduction to Bulgogi
Bulgogi, literally translated to “fire meat” in Korean, is a classic Korean dish known for its tender slices of marinated beef grilled or stir-fried to perfection. Traditionally made with rib-eye or sirloin beef, bulgogi has been a staple of Korean cuisine for centuries. The marinade, a mix of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and other seasonings, infuses the beef with rich, umami flavors that make every bite a delight.
Why Ground Beef?
While traditional bulgogi uses whole beef cuts, ground beef bulgogi is a quicker and equally delicious alternative. Ground beef cooks faster than slices of steak, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight meal. The flavor profile remains the same, with the sweet-salty marinade soaking into every bit of beef. Plus, ground beef is more affordable and readily available, making it a convenient choice for home cooks everywhere.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
Quick, Easy, and Flavor-Packed
One of the main reasons you’ll fall in love with this ground beef bulgogi recipe is its simplicity. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a hot, flavorful dish ready to serve. Whether you’re making it for yourself or your family, the combination of savory beef and a rich, umami-packed marinade is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Simple Ingredients
The best part about this recipe is that you don’t need any exotic or hard-to-find ingredients. Most of the ingredients for ground beef bulgogi are items you likely already have in your pantry or local grocery store. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can recreate the bold flavors of Korean bulgogi right in your own kitchen.
Nutritional Benefits
While bulgogi is typically made with fatty cuts of beef, using ground beef offers a bit more flexibility. You can choose lean ground beef to reduce fat content or opt for healthier alternatives like ground turkey or even plant-based ground beef for a vegetarian-friendly option. Paired with steamed rice and a few veggies, this recipe provides a well-rounded meal that’s packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe: Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this quick and easy ground beef bulgogi, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef (80% lean) | 1 lb (450g) |
| Soy Sauce | ¼ cup |
| Brown Sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Sesame Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Fresh Ginger (grated) | 1 tbsp |
| Green Onion | 2 stalks (chopped) |
| Korean Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru) | 1 tsp |
| Black Pepper | ½ tsp |
| Sesame Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Rice (for serving) | 2 cups (cooked) |
Optional Ingredients
- Korean Pear: Adds natural sweetness to the marinade.
- Vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions are great additions for extra flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Beef Bulgogi
1. Prepare the Marinade (5-10 minutes)
To make the marinade, you’ll first need to gather your seasonings. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), and black pepper. Stir the ingredients together until the sugar dissolves, and the marinade becomes a smooth, well-blended mixture.
Let the marinade sit for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you like a sweeter flavor, you can add a little more sugar or a few tablespoons of grated Korean pear, which is commonly used to tenderize and sweeten bulgogi.
2. Cook the Ground Beef (10-15 minutes)
Now it’s time to cook your ground beef. Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat, but be sure to leave some behind to enhance the flavor.
Once the beef is cooked, add the marinade to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the beef is coated with the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to soak into the meat and the sauce to thicken slightly.
3. Serve and Garnish
When your ground beef bulgogi is ready, it’s time to serve! Spoon the bulgogi over a bowl of steamed rice and garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a burst of freshness and crunch. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a lighter, low-carb option.
Pro Tip: For an added layer of texture and flavor, try letting the beef sit for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps the sauce absorb into the meat for even more flavor.
Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Bulgogi Every Time
Choosing the Right Ground Beef
While any ground beef will work, using 80/20 ground beef (80% lean) is the best choice for flavor. The fat content adds richness and ensures that the beef remains juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can opt for 90% lean beef, but keep in mind that it may not have the same depth of flavor.
Customize Your Bulgogi
One of the best things about ground beef bulgogi is how adaptable it is. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your tastes:
- Add vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions work wonderfully in this dish.
- Increase sweetness: Add more brown sugar or use Korean pear to enhance the sweetness.
- Make it spicy: For those who like a kick, increase the amount of gochugaru or add a spoonful of gochujang (Korean chili paste).
Serve with the Right Sides
For the perfect meal, pair your bulgogi with some delicious side dishes. Korean cuisine often features a variety of sides, known as banchan, that complement the main dish. Here are a few ideas:
- Kimchi: The spicy, tangy fermented cabbage adds the perfect contrast to the rich bulgogi.
- Steamed rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- Sautéed vegetables: Spinach, bok choy, or pickled radish make great sides.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Bulgogi
Side Dishes That Complement Bulgogi
You can keep it traditional by serving your bulgogi with steamed rice, but feel free to get creative! Some other great side dish options include:
- Kimchi: Its spicy and tangy flavor provides a perfect balance to the sweetness of the bulgogi.
- Pickled Radishes: Their crunch and acidity help cut through the richness of the beef.
- Sautéed Spinach: Adds some extra greens to your meal while balancing the flavors.
Beverage Pairings
For a beverage that complements the dish, try one of these:
- Korean Soju: A traditional Korean spirit that pairs well with bulgogi.
- Iced Tea or Light Beer: Non-alcoholic options that won’t overwhelm the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey for This Bulgogi Recipe?
Yes! Ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef, though the flavor will be slightly milder. If you prefer, you can also use ground chicken or plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Ground Beef Bulgogi?
Leftover bulgogi can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to two months. Just be sure to let it cool before storing.
Can I Make Ground Beef Bulgogi Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love spice, you can increase the amount of gochugaru or add a bit of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to give it an extra kick.
What is the Best Type of Ground Beef for Bulgogi?
Ground beef with a fat content of around 80% is ideal. This provides enough fat to keep the beef juicy and flavorful without being greasy. If you want a leaner version, you can use 90% lean ground beef, but it may not have as much depth of flavor.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
If you’ve been craving a savory, sweet, and spicy Korean dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, then ground beef bulgogi is the recipe for you. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this delicious Korean classic in the comfort of your own home, no need for a grill or special equipment. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Try it today, and see how this simple dish can become your new favorite go-to meal. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below or post a picture of your creation on social media! We’d love to hear how your ground beef bulgogi turned out. Happy cooking!