Mary KellyWhen it comes to enjoying slow cooker Korean beef, the right side dishes can elevate your meal from great to extraordinary. Here are three top recommendations for pairing with this tasty dish, each designed to complement the savory and slightly sweet flavors of the beef.
1. Steamed Rice
There’s no denying that a generous serving of fluffy steamed rice is a classic companion. When drizzled with the delicious juices from the Korean beef, it transforms into a comforting base. Use jasmine or sticky rice for that authentic experience. The subtle sweetness of the rice balances the bold flavors of the beef beautifully.
2. Pickled Vegetables
Adding a zingy element, pickled vegetables are essential for creating contrast. You might pick carrots, cucumbers, or radishes, and a quick pickle can be made in 30 minutes. Slice your veggies thinly, soak them in a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and sugar, and let them sit. These bright flavors cut through the richness of the dish, adding a delightful crunch.
3. Asian Slaw
An Asian slaw, made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing, adds freshness. The crunch of the salad contrasts nicely with the tender beef. Toss in some sesame seeds and chopped peanuts for an added texture dimension. This combination keeps the dish light, making for a well-rounded meal.
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Picture this: You stroll into your kitchen after a long day, and the tantalizing scent of slow-cooked beef wafts through the air. That’s the magic of slow cooker Korean beef. This dish blends savory, sweet, and umami flavors, creating a comforting hug in a bowl. It’s hard to resist a meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I’ve invested a lot of time perfecting my slow cooker Korean beef recipe. It combines quality ingredients and simple steps to yield a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. This recipe is a staple in my household, and it’s one that I believe everyone should have in their culinary arsenal. Let’s dive deeper into why this dish deserves a spot on your dining table.
Why This Recipe Works?
1. Flavor Explosion
Slow cooking melds the spices, herbs, and sauces into the beef. Each bite is bursting with flavor thanks to ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil, creating a delightful harmony.
2. Simple Ingredients
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a selection of easily accessible ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels indulgent. There’s no need for specialty tools or complicated processes.
3. Versatile Cooking Method
The slow cooker is a game-changer. You can set it and forget it! The long cooking time allows the tough cuts of beef to become tender, while you spend your day doing anything else.
4. Healthy Alternative
This dish can easily fit into a healthy eating plan. By controlling the sugar levels and seasoning, you can enjoy a delicious meal without the guilt. The inclusion of ginger and garlic also packs in a nutritional punch.
How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine sinking your teeth into tender chunks of beef soaked in a savory sauce that’s just the right amount of sweet. The ginger lends a fresh kick, while the garlic adds depth. As you chew, the occasional crunch from sesame seeds surprises you.
It’s a flavor journey that dances in your mouth—a delightful mix of savory and sweet with a hint of heat from the Sriracha. Trust me; every bite draws you in for another mouthful.
What sets this recipe apart from other slow cooker Korean beef variations?
My slow cooker Korean beef recipe stands out thanks to the balance of flavors I’ve refined over time. Many versions go heavy on soy sauce or sugar, missing that intricate dance of ingredients. By incorporating toasted sesame oil and hoisin sauce, I create a unique depth that makes every bite memorable.
Additionally, I allow fresh ginger and garlic to shine rather than letting them get lost in the background. This punchy flavor profile lifts the dish, creating a meal that is not just good but fantastic.
The Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup savory beef stock
- ½ cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon finely ground white pepper
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger root
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha hot sauce, or more, to taste
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (for extra depth and umami flavor)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (mild, tangy)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Beef
Begin by cutting the boneless beef chuck into 1-inch cubes. Ensuring even sizes helps with consistent cooking. Feel free to trim excess fat, but a little marbling is good as it enhances flavor during the slow cooking process.
Step 2: Mix Your Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, beef stock, brown sugar, sesame oil, white pepper, ginger, garlic, onion powder, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and Sriracha. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce will create that signature Korean flavor profile.
Step 3: Load the Slow Cooker
Transfer your beef cubes into the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them, making sure every piece is coated. This makes it super flavorful.
Step 4: Set It and Forget It
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. During this time, the beef becomes tender, soaking up all the deliciousness of the sauce.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Once the cooking time is up, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Add this to the slow cooker and stir gently. Cook for an additional 30 minutes on high to thicken the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
When ready to serve, top with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra flair. This dish is best when paired with rice and those crunchy pickled veggies I mentioned earlier.
Notes
- Choose Quality Beef: For the best experience, avoid lean cuts. Chuck roast has fat that keeps the meat tender.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar level based on your taste. Some like a sweeter sauce, while others prefer saltiness.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy heat, increase the Sriracha to your preference.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked beef to rest for a few minutes before serving enhances texture.
- Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld, so don’t hesitate to make extra!
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
How Do You Store This Slow Cooker Korean Beef?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to three days. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to three months. Just reheat on low in the slow cooker or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
1. Coconut Aminos instead of Soy Sauce: If you’re looking for a soy-free option, coconut aminos work great and provide a slightly sweeter flavor.
2. Honey instead of Brown Sugar: If you’re out of brown sugar, honey can add that sweetness needed for the sauce. Just use slightly less, as it’s sweeter by volume.
3. Beef Broth instead of Beef Stock: In a pinch, beef broth will do the trick, though it may need a bit more seasoning.
4. Beef Tenderloin instead of Chuck: If you desire a leaner cut, tenderloin can be used, but keep in mind it cooks faster, so adjust the timing.
Slow Cooker Korean Beef
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cutting the boneless beef chuck into 1-inch cubes. Ensuring even sizes helps with consistent cooking. Feel free to trim excess fat, but a little marbling is good as it enhances flavor during the slow cooking process.
- In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, beef stock, brown sugar, sesame oil, white pepper, ginger, garlic, onion powder, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and Sriracha. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce will create that signature Korean flavor profile.
- Transfer your beef cubes into the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them, making sure every piece is coated. This makes it super flavorful.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. During this time, the beef becomes tender, soaking up all the deliciousness of the sauce.
- Once the cooking time is up, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Add this to the slow cooker and stir gently. Cook for an additional 30 minutes on high to thicken the sauce.
- When ready to serve, top with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra flair. This dish is best when paired with rice and those crunchy pickled veggies I mentioned earlier.
Nutrition
Notes
- Choose Quality Beef: For the best experience, avoid lean cuts. Chuck roast has fat that keeps the meat tender.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar level based on your taste. Some like a sweeter sauce, while others prefer saltiness.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy heat, increase the Sriracha to your preference.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked beef to rest for a few minutes before serving enhances texture.
- Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld, so don’t hesitate to make extra!
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Absolutely! Vegetables such as bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots can enrich the flavors. Just add them halfway through cooking to prevent mushiness.
2. Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make this recipe in an Instant Pot. Use the sauté function for browning the beef, then add ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 35 minutes.
3. Can I decrease the cook time?
You could shorten the cook time by using a quicker cooking method, like sautéing the beef, but the slow cooker method truly brings out the best in the beef.
4. Is this dish gluten-free?
Traditional soy sauce contains gluten. However, using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce option will provide the same fantastic flavor without gluten.
Conclusion
Slow cooker Korean beef is more than just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor and comfort. This simple recipe invites everyone to gather around the table, sharing not just food but stories and laughter. It’s quick to prepare and offers the luxury of time for you to focus on what matters. This dish is about convenience without sacrificing taste.
So, fire up that slow cooker, maybe dance a little while you wait, and enjoy the wonderful experience that each bite of slow-cooked Korean beef brings. Trust me, it’s worth the wait, and once you try it, you’ll find it a new favorite in your home.
