Being a food content creator, I have people ask me all the time what I eat on a day-to-day basis. This 15-minute Spicy Korean Beef Bowl is just that because it’s ridiculously easy, packed with protein, carbs, and is so easy to incorporate veggies into.
Infused with the bold flavors of gochujang (Korean red chili paste), these bowls offer a perfect balance of heat, umami, and sweetness. Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or just eager to try something new, this dish will surely become a favorite. Let’s dive into what makes these bowls so special and how you can whip them up in your own kitchen.
Recommended Rice Cookers
Do I need to have a fancy rice cooker to make this meal? NO! Just like anything, generally, the higher the quality, the better. But you can make my rice cooker meals in a cheap rice cooker, too!
Click the rice cooker photos to see my favorite rice cookers. I included a budget-friendly rice cooker I love! I use the Tiger 5.5-cup model shown. About 1/2 cup of Japanese short- or medium-grain rice makes 1 serving.
Key Features to Look For in a Rice Cooker:
- Steaming Basket or Tray: Allows you to steam vegetables or cook other ingredients while the rice cooks.
- Multiple Cooking Functions: Ensure it has settings for steaming, slow cooking, and possibly even baking.
- Non-Stick Inner Pot: Makes cleaning easier and prevents sticking.
- Timer and Keep Warm Function: Useful for planning meals ahead of time and keeping them warm until you’re ready to eat.
5.5 cups or 10 cups
2 cups
Gochujang
If you’ve ever delved into Korean cuisine, you’ve likely encountered gochujang, a staple ingredient that brings depth and heat to many beloved dishes. Gochujang is a thick, red chili paste made from chili powder (gochugaru), glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt.
Traditional gochujang is made through a fermentation process that can take several months to years. The ingredients are mixed and then left to ferment in earthenware pots, called jangdok, which are kept outdoors. The fermentation process not only develops the deep flavors but also adds beneficial probiotics. Additionally, it has a wide variety of culinary uses:
Marinades: Gochujang is a key ingredient in marinades for meats like bulgogi and dakgalbi, providing both flavor and tenderizing effects.
Sauces: It’s used to make dipping sauces and dressings, often combined with ingredients like vinegar, garlic, and sugar.
Soups and Stews: Gochujang adds depth and spice to soups and stews like kimchi jjigae and sundubu jjigae.
Stir-fries: A spoonful of gochujang can elevate the flavor of stir-fried dishes, adding a rich, spicy kick.
Spicy Korean Beef Bowls
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Description
Spicy Korean beef bowls made with gochujang feature tender beef marinated in a rich, spicy-sweet gochujang sauce, served over steamed rice and accompanied by sautéed vegetables of your choice, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal with a perfect balance of heat, umami, and sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain or medium grain rice
- 1 lb ground beef (substitute for other ground meats, or crumbled extra firm tofu for a vegetarian version)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp gochujang (adjust according to your desired spice preference)
- 1 1/2 cup carrots, julienned or grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 eggs (optional; to serve on top of the rice), sunny-side up
- Garnish (optional): chopped green onions and roasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a large pan over medium heat, begin cooking your garlic with some cooking oil for one minute. Add in your ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add in the gochujang, soy sauce, and water. Add the carrots and mix to ensure everything is coated in the sauce. Drizzle with sesame oil.
- Serve the beef on top of rice, with an egg on top.
Notes
Add whatever vegetables you want to this dish: Sautéd mushrooms, spinach, onions, etc.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
I love these Korean flavors! Asian comfort food. 5/5
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks, Autumn!
Topped it with a jammy egg and scallions for a full bowl feel. Very good
Yum! That sounds delish! 🙂