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Bulgogi Bowls with Quinoa and Broccoli

Bulgogi Bowls with Quinoa and Broccoli

These Bulgogi Bowls with Quinoa and Broccoli combine tender, marinated Korean-style beef with fluffy quinoa and vibrant broccoli for a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, they deliver a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients with an addictive savory-sweet Korean marinade.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef and Marinade

  • 1 lb thinly sliced sirloin or ribeye beef
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (use reduced-sodium if preferred)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 tbsp gochujang (optional)

Grain Base

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups broth or water (for cooking quinoa)

Vegetables and Garnishes

  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • Extra sesame oil for sautéing broccoli and finishing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes or gochujang to create the flavorful bulgogi marinade.
  2. Marinate the beef: Add the thinly sliced beef into the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes or up to an hour to absorb the flavors while you prepare other ingredients.
  3. Cook the quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. Cook according to package instructions using broth or water. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside.
  4. Steam or sauté the broccoli: Quickly steam broccoli florets until bright green and tender-crisp, or sauté in a bit of sesame oil for extra flavor. Avoid overcooking to maintain crunch and nutrients.
  5. Cook the marinated beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, searing each side for about 2-3 minutes until caramelized and cooked through. The marinade will form a delicious glaze as it cooks.
  6. Assemble the bowls: Divide quinoa evenly among serving bowls, layer with cooked broccoli, and top with the savory beef. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Drizzle extra sesame oil for added nuttiness.

Notes

  • Slice beef thinly for quick cooking and tender bites characteristic of bulgogi.
  • Marinating the beef longer intensifies the flavor.
  • Use a hot pan to achieve caramelization and depth of flavor.
  • Rinsing quinoa well results in fluffier grains and removes bitterness.
  • Cook broccoli last to keep it crisp and vibrant in color.

Nutrition

Keywords: Bulgogi, Korean beef, quinoa bowl, healthy dinner, quick recipe, broccoli, gluten free, easy meal