Description
A quick and flavorful Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli recipe that combines savory, sweet, and spicy flavors in a delicious stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish features tender broccoli florets and ground beef cooked in a tangy soy-based sauce with hints of garlic, ginger, and optional heat from gochujang, served over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef and Sauce
- 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 and 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 ground 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 with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and the mixture becomes fragrant.
- Prepare the sauce: Stir in the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and gochujang if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Cook the 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 splash of water or steaming on the stovetop.
- Combine broccoli with beef: Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir well 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. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
- Gochujang adds heat and depth but can be omitted or reduced for milder flavor.
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- Steaming broccoli helps retain nutrients and keep it crisp-tender.
- This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine or brown rice for a wholesome meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
