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Korean cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and textures, renowned for its ability to balance sweet, spicy, and savory elements in a single dish. The rich culinary heritage of Korea is reflected in its use of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and fermentation, creating a dining experience that is as much about the flavors as it is about the harmony of the meal. Among the many beloved dishes that exemplify these traits, Sweet & Spicy Korean Beef Bowls have emerged as a favorite for home cooks seeking a satisfying and quick weeknight meal.

Sweet & Spicy Korean Beef Bowls

Discover the delicious world of Sweet & Spicy Korean Beef Bowls, a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender flank steak with a rich sauce made from gochujang and brown sugar, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Packed with colorful vegetables and served over jasmine or cauliflower rice, these bowls are not just visually appealing but also a nutritious choice. Get ready to savor a culinary adventure with this flavorful and versatile recipe that everyone will love!

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Marinade:

1 pound of flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain

3 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ginger, grated

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Bowls:

2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)

1 cup julienned carrots

1 cup sliced bell peppers (mixed colors)

1 cup snap peas

2 green onions, sliced

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Optional: Kimchi (for serving)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Beef: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Add the thinly sliced flank steak to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

    Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add a teaspoon of sesame oil. Once hot, add the julienned carrots, sliced bell peppers, and snap peas. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

      Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add a little more sesame oil if needed, then add the marinated beef in a single layer. Let it sear for about 2 minutes without stirring, then toss and continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the beef is cooked through and nicely caramelized.

        Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked jasmine rice or cauliflower rice among serving bowls. Top with the stir-fried vegetables and the cooked beef.

          Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top. Optional: Serve with a side of kimchi for an extra kick.

            Enjoy! Dig into the flavorful layers of sweetness and spiciness in your Sweet & Spicy Korean Beef Bowls!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | 4 servings