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Quick Spicy Korean Beef Bowl Recipe with Gochujang Easy and Delicious

quick spicy korean beef bowl - featured image

A quick and easy spicy Korean beef bowl featuring gochujang, perfect for busy weeknights. This dish balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors with minimal fuss and maximum comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger (optional)
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 2 stalks green onions, sliced
  • 3 cups (600g) cooked rice (short grain or jasmine)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the rice according to package instructions (about 15 minutes).
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if using. Set aside.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Sauté minced garlic and grated ginger until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart and cook until no longer pink and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
  5. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef. Stir well to coat and simmer on low heat until the sauce thickens and clings to the meat, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Spoon warm rice into bowls, top with the spicy beef mixture, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari. To reduce spiciness, use less gochujang and omit red pepper flakes. Add sesame oil at the end to preserve its nutty aroma. Avoid overcrowding the pan to brown beef properly. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days when stored separately.

Nutrition

Keywords: Korean beef bowl, spicy beef bowl, gochujang recipe, quick Korean dinner, easy beef bowl, weeknight meal