Print

Savory Korean Beef Bowl Bulgogi Recipe

korean beef bowl bulgogi - featured image

A quick and easy Korean bulgogi beef bowl featuring thinly sliced marinated beef with a sweet-savory flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced beef ribeye or sirloin
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon Korean pear juice or grated Asian pear (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon mirin or rice wine
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Cooked steamed white rice or brown rice (about 2 cups)
  • Optional: sliced cucumber, kimchi, or steamed vegetables

Instructions

  1. If not pre-sliced, place the beef in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to firm it up, then slice against the grain into thin strips about 1/8-inch (3mm) thick.
  2. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced green onions, pear juice, mirin, and black pepper. Stir until sugar dissolves.
  3. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1-2 hours.
  4. Cook 2 cups of white or brown rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
  5. Heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Cook in batches if needed.
  6. Spoon warm rice into bowls, top with cooked bulgogi beef, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Add sliced cucumbers or kimchi if desired.
  7. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Marinate beef at least 30 minutes for best flavor; longer marinating (up to overnight) improves tenderness. Cook beef in batches to avoid steaming. Use tamari for gluten-free option. Thinly slice beef against the grain for tenderness. Avoid stirring too much while cooking to develop caramelized edges.

Nutrition

Keywords: bulgogi, Korean beef bowl, savory beef, quick dinner, easy Korean recipe, weeknight meal, marinated beef, sesame oil, soy sauce