This Spicy Keto Korean Ground Beef is bursting with flavor and is super satisfying! It features tender ground beef cooked with tasty spices, perfect for those on a low-carb diet.
The cool cucumber salad adds a refreshing crunch that makes every bite sing. I love how quick this meal is to whip up—dinner in a flash means more time to enjoy it! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend choosing 80/20 ground beef for a juicy and flavorful result. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. Just be mindful that they may turn out drier without added fat.
Soy Sauce: Traditional soy sauce brings the umami flavor, but tamari is a great gluten-free alternative. If you’re avoiding soy altogether, coconut aminos work well too, though they are slightly sweeter.
Chili Paste: Gochujang provides an authentic flavor; however, you can use sambal oelek or even hot sauce if gochujang isn’t available. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
Cucumber: English cucumbers are great for this salad due to their thin skin and mild flavor. If you can’t find them, you could use regular cucumbers but may want to peel them first to reduce bitterness.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor When Cooking the Beef?
Getting the flavor just right is key to this dish. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start with medium-high heat to quickly brown the ground beef, which helps lock in flavor.
- Add aromatics like garlic and ginger early, but just cook until fragrant to prevent burning.
- After adding the sauce, let the mixture simmer. This helps all those delicious flavors meld together beautifully!
- Always taste as you go so you can adjust seasoning. Remember, a little extra salt or heat can elevate the dish!
Following these tips can make your spicy Korean ground beef not just good, but truly memorable! Enjoy your cooking experience!
Spicy Keto Korean Ground Beef with Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Korean Ground Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 2 teaspoons chili paste (gochujang for authentic Korean flavor, or sambal oelek)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon swerve or erythritol (keto-friendly sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
For the Cucumber Salad:
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon erythritol or keto-friendly sweetener
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal can be made in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumber Salad:
In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumber and red onion. In a separate small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, erythritol, and a pinch of salt. Pour this mixture over the cucumber and onion slices. Toss everything gently to coat evenly. Set aside to marinate while you cook the beef. This will help enhance the flavors of the salad.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until it is browned and mostly cooked through, which should take about 5 minutes.
3. Add Aromatics:
Next, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together and cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic and ginger become fragrant. This adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the beef.
4. Add Sauce Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the flavor! Stir in the soy sauce, chili paste (gochujang), sesame oil, sweetener, crushed red pepper flakes, and water. Mix well so that the beef is evenly coated in the sauce. Lower the heat to medium and allow it to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, which will help thicken the sauce and meld all the delicious flavors together.
5. Season and Garnish:
Before serving, taste the beef mixture and adjust with more salt or red pepper flakes if desired. Once it’s just the way you like it, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
6. Plate and Serve:
Now it’s time to enjoy your creation! Serve the spicy Korean ground beef hot with the refreshing cucumber salad either on the side or right on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if you wish. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying texture of this easy, keto-friendly meal!
This dish offers a perfect balance with the spicy and savory beef complemented by the crisp, tangy cucumber salad—ideal for anyone looking for a flavorful and healthy meal!
Can I Use a Different Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might require additional fat to keep the dish juicy and flavorful.
Can I Make the Cucumber Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cucumber salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld beautifully while it sits!
How Spicy is This Dish?
The spice level can vary based on your preferences! Start with the recommended amount of chili paste, then taste and adjust accordingly. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can always reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes as well.
Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to revive the dish.