Name: Korean Beef Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 4 hamburger buns; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)

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Why Make This Recipe

Korean Beef Sloppy Joes offer a fun twist on the classic American sandwich. They combine savory flavors with a hint of spice, making them a delightful option for lunch or dinner. This recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for those looking to try something new while still enjoying the comfort of a sloppy joe. Plus, it’s quick to make, which is great for busy weeknights!

How to Make Korean Beef Sloppy Joes

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
4 hamburger buns
1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Directions

In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Stir in garlic and ginger, and sauté for another minute.
In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, and gochujang.
Pour the sauce over the cooked beef, stirring well to combine.
Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Spoon the beef mixture onto hamburger buns and garnish with green onions.
Serve hot.

How to Serve Korean Beef Sloppy Joes

Serve Korean Beef Sloppy Joes hot, straight from the skillet. They are perfect on their own or paired with a simple side like chips, fries, or a fresh salad. You can also add extra toppings if you like, such as sliced cucumbers or pickled vegetables, to enhance the flavor.

How to Store Korean Beef Sloppy Joes

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm up the beef mixture in a skillet or microwave before serving again. It’s best to store the beef separately from the buns to keep them from getting soggy.

Tips to Make Korean Beef Sloppy Joes

Make sure to break the ground beef into small pieces as it cooks for better texture in the final sandwich.
Adjust the amount of gochujang to control the spice level according to your preference.
Add some vegetables like shredded carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and crunch.
For a bit of sweetness, you can increase the brown sugar slightly.

Variation

You can try using different proteins, such as ground turkey or chicken, if you prefer a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with lentils or mushrooms sautéed with onions and spices.

FAQs

Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?
Yes, using low-sodium soy sauce will reduce the saltiness while still adding flavor.

What if I can’t find gochujang?
If gochujang is not available, you can use a mix of hot chili sauce and miso paste as a substitute.

Can I freeze Korean Beef Sloppy Joes?
Yes, you can freeze the beef mixture. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.