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Sweet & Savory Korean Ground Beef – So Easy!

  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Korean-inspired
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A quick and flavorful mix of sweet, savory, and mildly spicy ground beef served over rice—perfect for weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp ginger, minced
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  •  cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 tsp chili garlic sauce or Sriracha
  • ½ cup sliced green onions, divided
  • 2 cups hot cooked rice
  • 1 medium cucumber, sliced
  • 1 cup matchstick carrots
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)


Instructions

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the beef with garlic and ginger, breaking into crumbles until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
  2. Return skillet to heat, then stir in sesame oil, brown sugar, soy sauce, and chili garlic sauce. Cook until sauce thickens slightly, about 1–2 minutes.
  3. Stir in half the green onions and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Serve beef over hot rice alongside cucumbers and carrots.
  5. Garnish with remaining green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Notes

  • Ground turkey can substitute for beef for a leaner option.
  • Use low‑sodium soy sauce to reduce salt.
  • For a low‑carb version, swap rice for cauliflower rice or use lettuce wraps.