Slow Cooker Korean Beef

Slow Cooker Korean Beef

When I think of cozy dinners that warm the heart, Slow Cooker Korean Beef immediately comes to mind. There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma that fills the house as this dish simmers away in the slow cooker. Just the other day, I had a bustling day planned, juggling errands and work, but I knew I wanted something hearty and delicious for dinner without much hassle. Enter the Slow Cooker Korean Beef. With just a few moments of prep, I was able to set it and forget it while going about my day. As soon as I walked through the door, the sweet and savory scents welcomed me, making all my efforts worthwhile.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr 10 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
240 mins
Difficulty:
Hard
Calories:
450 kcal
Protein:
40 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
15 g
Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Slow Cooker, Chef’s Knife

What’s Great About This Slow Cooker Korean Beef

It’s a Flavor Explosion

What I adore about this recipe is its rich, bold flavor profile. The combination of the tender flank steak with the sweet and salty soy sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that is simply unmatched. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!

Perfect for Busy Days

Let’s face it, life can get hectic. This dish is a lifesaver for those days when you want to enjoy something comforting but don’t have the time to stand over the stove. Just prepare your ingredients in the morning, and let the slow cooker work its magic.

Great for Sharing

There’s something special about gathering friends and family around the table to enjoy a meal together. The Slow Cooker Korean Beef is perfect for sharing, making it an ideal centerpiece for any gathering. Serve it over warm rice and watch everyone dig in!

Customization Galore

Another reason this recipe shines is its versatility. You can easily adjust the sweetness or spiciness to suit your palate. Whether you prefer a touch more brown sugar or a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, it’s all up to you!

Leftovers that Taste Even Better

If there’s any left over, you’re in for a treat! The flavors continue to meld together beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious meal the next day. I love making Slow Cooker Korean Beef on a Sunday so I can enjoy the leftovers throughout the week.

A Meal for Any Occasion

Finally, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish fits right in. It’s comforting enough for a cozy night in but delicious enough to impress your guests. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again.

Essential Ingredients for Slow Cooker Korean Beef

Slow Cooker Korean Beef

The magic of Slow Cooker Korean Beef lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating that authentic taste we all crave. The key players include tender flank steak, which becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and a balance of sweet and savory components like soy sauce, brown sugar, and seseame oil. Together, they create a dish that is both satisfying and memorable.

  • Flank Steak: 1 ½ pounds. This cut of meat is perfect for slow cooking, becoming tender and flavorful after hours of simmering.
  • Cornstarch: ¼ cup. Used to coat the steak, it helps to thicken the sauce and enhance the texture.
  • Seseame Oil: 2 tablespoons. Adds a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
  • Minced Garlic: ½ teaspoon. Fresh garlic brings a robust aroma and taste that elevates the dish.
  • Soy Sauce: ½ cup. The backbone of the sauce, providing saltiness and depth of flavor.
  • Beef Broth: ½ cup. Adds moisture and richness to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
  • Brown Sugar: ¾ cup. The sweetness balances the saltiness of the soy sauce, creating a harmonious flavor.
  • Chopped Onion: ¼ cup. Adds sweetness and depth to the overall dish.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon. A touch of heat to balance the sweetness.
  • Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: for garnish. These provide a fresh, crunchy contrast to the tender beef.

The Method for Slow Cooker Korean Beef

Slow Cooker Korean Beef

Cooking with a slow cooker makes everything easier, and Slow Cooker Korean Beef is no exception! It’s all about layering flavors in the right order. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome:

  1. Start by cutting the flank steak into thin strips. This helps it cook evenly and absorb all those delicious flavors.
  2. Next, grab a ziplock bag and add the steak pieces along with the cornstarch. Shake it up until every piece is well-coated; this will give the sauce some extra thickness later on.
  3. In your slow cooker, combine the sesame oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, chopped onion, and red pepper flakes. Give it a good stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.
  4. Now it’s time to add in the coated flank steak. Stir again, making sure every piece of meat is well-covered in that delectable sauce.
  5. Set your slow cooker to high and let it cook for 2 to 3 hours, or on low for 4 to 5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is cooked throughout and tender.
  6. As the final touches, serve it over steaming rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Trust me, these add that final flair!

And there you have it! A meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also deeply satisfying.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Prepping Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can cut the steak and mix the sauce a day ahead. Store in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
  • Slow Cooker Variations: Different slow cookers may cook at different speeds. Always check the doneness earlier to avoid overcooking.
  • Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce isn’t thick enough after cooking, you can transfer it to a saucepan and simmer it for a few minutes with some additional cornstarch mixed in.
  • Flavor Enhancements: For a deeper flavor, try adding a tablespoon of brown sugar or a splash of vinegar to the sauce.

Tips and Variations

Slow Cooker Korean Beef

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen, and the Slow Cooker Korean Beef is no exception! Here’s how you can make it your own:

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked beef for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to eat!
  • Pairing: Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
  • Spice it Up: If you like things spicy, add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the mix.
  • Rice Alternatives: Instead of rice, try serving it over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
  • Garnish Options: Get creative with garnishes! Try cilantro or chopped peanuts for added texture and flavor.
  • Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Cook a large batch and divide into individual servings for the week.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Korean Beef

Serving the Slow Cooker Korean Beef can turn your dinner into a delightful experience. Here’s how to present it:

  • Over Steamed Rice: The flavors of the beef pair beautifully with the fluffiness of warm rice. Use jasmine or brown rice for a different twist.
  • With Fresh Vegetables: Pair it with a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy to add a fresh touch.
  • For Special Occasions: This dish works great for family gatherings or a casual dinner party. Serve it in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves.
  • Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll taste even better the next day!
  • Seasonal Pairings: During colder months, serve with hearty root vegetables; in warmer months, consider a light salad on the side.
  • Comfort Food: Enjoy it as a cozy meal during family nights in, paired with your favorite movie.

FAQ

If you find the recipe a bit too sweet for your taste, there are a few adjustments you can make. First, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar in the recipe; try starting with half of what is suggested and adjust according to your preference. Additionally, consider adding a splash of acidity, like rice vinegar or lemon juice, to balance the sweetness. This will give the dish a more complex flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients.

While flank steak is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can definitely experiment with other cuts. Cuts like chuck roast or brisket will also work well, though they may require a bit more cooking time to achieve that same tender texture. Just make sure to cut them into similar sized strips for even cooking.

This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides. Serving it over fluffy white or brown rice is a classic option, but you might also consider quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist. Steamed vegetables, like broccoli or snap peas, complement it nicely and add a burst of color. For a complete meal, you might even consider a fresh salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the beef.

You can store leftover Slow Cooker Korean Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing the leftovers. They can be frozen in individual portions for up to three months. Just remember to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to the freezer and thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Korean Beef is a standout dish that offers comfort and flavor in every bite. With its tender meat and a balance of sweet and savory elements, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at your table. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s easy to prepare and will make your home smell incredible!

Slow Cooker Korean Beef

Slow Cooker Korean Beef

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Korean Beef is a flavorful, easy weeknight dinner that comes together effortlessly. The tender beef simmers in a sweet and savory sauce, making it irresistible. Serve it over rice for a satisfying meal that your family will love!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Korean
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Wooden Spoon
  • Slow Cooker
  • Chef's Knife

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ pounds Flank Steak
  • ¼ cup Cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil
  • ½ teaspoon Minced Garlic
  • ½ cup Soy Sauce
  • ½ cup Beef Broth
  • ¾ cup Brown Sugar
  • ¼ cup Chopped Onion
  • ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
  • Green Onions and Sesame Seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Start by cutting the flank steak into thin strips. This helps it cook evenly and absorb all those delicious flavors.
  • Next, grab a ziplock bag and add the steak pieces along with the cornstarch. Shake it up until every piece is well-coated; this will give the sauce some extra thickness later on.
  • In your slow cooker, combine the sesame oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, chopped onion, and red pepper flakes. Give it a good stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.
  • Now it’s time to add in the coated flank steak. Stir again, making sure every piece of meat is well-covered in that delectable sauce.
  • Set your slow cooker to high and let it cook for 2 to 3 hours, or on low for 4 to 5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is cooked throughout and tender.
  • As the final touches, serve it over steaming rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Trust me, these add that final flair!

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze the cooked beef for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to eat!
  • Tip 3: Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
  • Tip 4: If you like things spicy, add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the mix.
  • Tip 5: Instead of rice, try serving it over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
Keyword Comfort Food Recipe, Easy Slow Cooker Dinner, Korean Beef Recipe, Slow Cooker Korean Beef

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