Description
This Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe is a savory and slightly sweet stir-fry that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Ground beef is cooked with aromatic garlic, ginger, and a deliciously tangy sauce made of soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar, complemented by tender broccoli florets. A touch of gochujang adds optional heat, while sesame oil and seeds enhance the dish’s nutty notes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner served over steamed rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste, optional for heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Vegetables & Garnish
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)
Serving
- Cooked rice for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and gochujang if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Prepare Broccoli: While the sauce simmers, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes. This can be done by microwaving with a bit of water or steaming on the stovetop.
- Combine Broccoli & Beef: Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir everything thoroughly to coat the broccoli evenly with the sauce. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the Korean ground beef and broccoli over cooked rice if desired. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of gochujang or add red pepper flakes.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure the soy sauce used is gluten-free tamari.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Broccoli can be replaced or combined with other vegetables like snap peas or bell peppers.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
