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Slow Cooker Korean Beef

Savory Slow Cooker Korean Beef for Effortless Family Dinners

Enjoy the delightful flavors of Slow Cooker Korean Beef, a perfect balance of sweetness and spice for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Thickening Time 30 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: dinner
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 medium diced onion Adds sweetness and depth; try substituting with shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 4 cloves crushed garlic Provides aroma and umami; fresh garlic enhances the overall taste.
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger Brings a warm spiciness; ginger paste makes for an easy shortcut.
  • ¼ cup rice wine vinegar Offers acidity to balance the sweetness; apple cider vinegar works as a good substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil Adds nuttiness; olive oil can be swapped for a more neutral flavor.
  • ½ cup soy sauce Provides saltiness and umami; opt for low-sodium if you're watching your salt intake.
  • cup brown sugar Sweetens and balances the sauce; use white sugar or molasses in a pinch for a richer flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes Introduces heat; adjust according to taste or use gochugaru for that authentic kick.
For the Beef
  • 2 pounds chuck beef The ideal cut for tenderness; brisket or short ribs can also be used as alternatives.
For Thickening the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Blends with water to thicken the sauce; ensure to mix well for a smooth texture.
  • ¼ cup water Aids in making the cornstarch slurry; start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In your slow cooker, combine diced onion, crushed garlic, minced ginger, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, and red chili flakes. Stir well to meld these vibrant flavors together.
  2. Add bite-sized pieces of chuck beef to the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is coated in the flavorful sauce.
  3. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 8 hours.
  4. After 8 hours, mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Carefully pour this mixture into the slow cooker, stirring gently to incorporate it into the sauce.
  5. Raise the temperature to high and let the mixture cook for an additional 30 minutes.
  6. Before serving, garnish your Slow Cooker Korean Beef with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 32gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This recipe is fully customizable; feel free to add seasonal vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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