Whether you’re an adventurous eater or simply craving a new spin on weeknight dinner fare, immerse yourself in a delightful exploration of flavors with our Korean Beef and Broccoli that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.
I found myself standing in the kitchen trying to decide what I could make with the ingredients I had in the refrigerator.
I had some broccoli I need to use and I had thawed out some hamburger in hopes I would have a brilliant thought on a quick and easy meal to make for dinner.
Now, you know I am always game for something different and unique but my family is not quite as adventurous. However, I decided that I would take a glance through my list of ‘to try’ recipes.
This recipe seemed the perfect choice for using the ingredients I already had in my fridge.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Korean Beef and Broccoli is its versatility. While traditionally served over steamed rice, this dish can also be enjoyed in other creative ways such as in a taco or wrap for a delightful fusion experience.
The balance between sweet and salty, coupled with the earthy crunchiness of broccoli makes this dish not only delectable but also nutritious. It’s a total delight in flavor harmony that captivates both your taste buds and your imagination.
And I am very pleased to let you know that it was a hit with my family….every single one of them. 😉
If you want more delicious beef recipes, try my Mexican Stuffed Shells, Air Fryer Indian Tacos (with Homemade Fry Bread), or Crock Pot Hamburger Helper.
Ingredients Needed For Korean Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Ground Beef – cooked and crumbled
- Cornstarch
- Soy Sauce or Tamari – tamari has a richer, deeper flavor than soy sauce
- Brown Sugar
- Garlic Cloves
- Sesame Oil
- Gochujang – optional or to taste, Sriracha can also be used
- Broccoli Florets – fresh or frozen
- Rice – cooked, for serving
- Sesame Seeds – optional, for serving
How to Make Korean Beef and Broccoli
Step 1
Cook beef over medium heat until it is browned, with no pink remaining. This step will take about 5 – 7 minutes.
Step 2
While the ground beef is cooking, steam the broccoli in steamer basket over boiling water for about 4 minutes.
Step 3
Add cornstarch to ground beef and stir until beef is well coated. Cook for about 3 minutes until ground beef is dark brown and crunchy.
Step 4
Add soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic cloves, sesame oil and gochujang to a small bowl and stir until completely mixed and the sugar is dissolved. Pour this mixture over the ground beef and stir gently to combine.
Step 5
Cook the beef and sauce mixture for about 2 minutes, then gently stir in the broccoli. Cook for an additional 2 – 3 minutes until the sauce is combined and absorbed by the beef and broccoli.
Step 6
Serve the beef and broccoli on rice and garnish with sesame seeds if so desired.
Korean Beef and Broccoli Recipe Notes And Tips
- Be careful not overcook the vegetables or they will become mushy.
- Top with some sesame seeds and green onions before serving for a little added flavor and crunch.
- For a fun and tasty twist, spoon the mixture into a lettuce leaf for a wrap.
- If you are looking for a littler leaner meat, ground turkey is an excellent substitute.
- Cook the ground beef on medium to high heat until no longer pink. Remove from the heat immediately so it does not dry out.
Variations Of Korean Beef And Broccoli To Try
- Add in additional fresh vegetables such as carrots, mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, edamame, peas, baby corn, or snow peas.
- Switch up the protein using shrimp, chicken or pork instead of ground beef.
FAQs
Do you have questions about our Korean Beef and Broccoli recipe? If you have a question and don’t see it already answered below, please leave it for me in the comments!
How long will the Korean Beef and Broccoli keep in the refrigerator?
It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 – 5 days in an air-tight container.
Can I freeze the beef and broccoli?
Yes! It can be frozen in an air-tight, freezer safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember that freezing may change the texture of the vegetables.
Is there an acceptable substitute for the brown sugar?
Honey or molasses are good substitutes if necessary or preferred. You can also use coconut sugar if you choose.
Can I use riced cauliflower instead of rice?
GREAT IDEA!!! This is a great low carb alternative instead of serving with white rice.
More Easy and Delicious Meals Using Beef
- Easy Crunchy Wonton Taco Cups Recipe (Crowd-pleaser!)
- Easy Fajita Burgers
- The BEST Irish Meat Pie Recipe
- The Very Best Sloppy Joes
- The Best Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Korean Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or Tamari
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp Gochujang, optional or to taste (can use sriracha)
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups cooked rice, for serving
- sesame seeds, optional, for serving
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until well-browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes.
- Meanwhile, steam the broccoli in a steamer basket over boiling water for approximately 4 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch until the ground beef is well-coated and cook for 3 additional minutes until the beef is dark brown and crunchy.
- In a small bowl or measuring cup, stir together the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic cloves, sesame oil, and gochujang until the sugar is completely dissolved. Pour the mixture over the beef and stir to combine.
- Cook for 2 minutes, then stir in the steamed broccoli and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce is completely absorbed by the beef and broccoli.
- Serve on rice and garnish with sesame seeds.
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