You know that moment when you’re scrolling through food videos and see those glossy, spicy Korean beef bowls topped with sesame seeds and green onions? That immediate craving that hits? Then reality checks in – surely something that looks that good requires special ingredients and hours of work?

 

What if I told you that authentic Dubu-Jorim (Korean braised tofu) flavor can be yours in just 20 minutes? This Easy Korean Beef Bowl combines spicy ground beef with tender tofu in a savory sauce that’s faster than takeout and twice as satisfying. Welcome to your new weeknight obsession!

What is Dubu-Jorim?

Dubu-Jorim (두부조림) is a classic Korean side dish where firm tofu is braised in a savory-spicy sauce. Traditionally made with soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes, it’s a staple in Korean households. Our version transforms it into a complete meal by adding ground beef and serving it over rice – maintaining all the authentic flavors while making it heartier and perfect for busy nights.

Why This 20-Minute Recipe Works

• Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: The sauce uses staples like soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes – no obscure ingredients needed

• Customizable Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preference, from mild to extra spicy

• Protein-Packed: With both ground beef and tofu, this dish keeps you full and satisfied

• One-Pan Wonder: Everything comes together in a single skillet for easy cleanup

Key Ingredients & Easy Substitutions

• Ground Beef: Lean (90/10) works best. Substitute with ground turkey or chicken

• Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu holds up best. Press it for 15 minutes for even better texture

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium to control saltiness. Tamari works for gluten-free

• Sesame Oil: Essential for authentic flavor – don’t skip!

• Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru): Adjust to your heat preference

• Sesame Seeds: Toasted for garnish – they add crunch and visual appeal

How to Make Your Korean Beef Bowl (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• ¼ cup soy sauce

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 3 cloves minced garlic

• 1 tsp grated ginger

• 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Step 2: Cook the Beef

• Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat

• Add 1 lb ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon

• Cook until browned (5-6 minutes), draining excess fat

Step 3: Braise the Tofu

• Add 14 oz cubed firm tofu to the skillet

• Pour the sauce over everything, stirring gently to combine

• Simmer for 5-7 minutes until sauce thickens slightly

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

• Remove from heat and stir in 2 chopped green onions

• Serve over steamed rice

• Garnish with more green onions and sesame seeds

Customization Ideas

• Vegetarian Version: Omit beef and use extra tofu or mushrooms

• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, carrots, or bell peppers with the tofu

• Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of white rice

• Extra Spicy: Add a tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the sauce

 

Why This Beats Takeout

• Healthier: You control the ingredients and sodium level

• Faster: Ready before delivery would even arrive

• Cost-Effective: Feeds a family for less than one takeout meal

• Customizable: Adjust the spice level and ingredients to your preference

FAQs (Your Questions Answered)

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Is this dish very spicy?
The heat is customizable. Start with 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes and add more after tasting.

Can I use soft tofu?
We don’t recommend it – soft tofu will break down during cooking. Firm or extra-firm works best.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?
While the flavor won’t be exactly the same, you can substitute with olive oil and add extra sesame seeds for that nutty flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Korean Beef Bowl with Dubu-Jorim proves that incredible global flavors don’t require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. In just 20 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Welcome to the Flavor Flux Family! 🎉
We’re all about making international cuisine accessible and approachable. If you loved this 20-minute Korean recipe, subscribe to get our next quick meal idea delivered straight to your inbox!

Made this recipe? You’re a star! ⭐
We’d love to hear how it turned out! Rate the recipe below or leave a comment telling us your favorite customization.

P.S. Know someone who loves Korean food? Share this post with them! 📤

Print