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Perfect Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe

Perfect Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe
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This Perfect Ground Beef Bulgogi Recipe delivers the authentic flavors of Korean cuisine in a quick and easy format. Tender ground beef is marinated in a balanced blend of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, fresh garlic, grated Asian pear, and nutty sesame oil, then cooked to caramelized perfection. Ideal for weeknight dinners or Korean-inspired meals, it offers a family-friendly dish that’s versatile and packed with umami goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) 85% lean ground beef
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 Asian pear or apple, grated (about 1/4 cup)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Optional: 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) for spice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated Asian pear, sesame oil, and ground black pepper. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a smooth, flavorful marinade base.
  2. Marinate the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the marinade and mix gently but thoroughly, ensuring every bit is coated. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes; this tenderizes the meat and infuses deep flavors.
  3. Cook the Beef: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Stir frequently until the beef is browned and slightly caramelized, about 6 to 8 minutes.
  4. Add Green Onions and Final Touches: Stir in sliced green onions towards the last minute of cooking for freshness and crunch. Adjust seasoning with extra soy sauce or sugar if needed. Remove from heat and serve.

Notes

  • Choose 85% lean ground beef for a balance of juiciness and flavor.
  • Use fresh garlic and green onions for the best aroma and taste.
  • Marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes to develop authentic bulgogi flavor.
  • Cook on medium-high heat to achieve proper caramelization.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to keep texture.
  • Optional: Add gochujang or chili flakes to increase spiciness.
  • This recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef bulgogi, Korean ground beef recipe, easy bulgogi, Korean beef, weeknight Korean dinner, bulgogi marinade

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/perfect-ground-beef-bulgogi-recipe/