Are you ready to take your taste buds on a culinary adventure around Asia? Look no further! Ground beef is a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines, and when combined with bold flavors and aromas, it becomes a true flavor bomb. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and authentic ground beef recipes from across the continent, each one showcasing a unique blend of spices, herbs, and cooking techniques.
From Korean BBQ-style bowls to spicy Thai stir-fries, savory Japanese steaks to hearty Vietnamese noodle soups, there’s something for everyone in this diverse collection of dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to spice up your meal routine, these flavorful recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Stay tuned for the next installment, where we’ll dive into the first 10 recipes on our list and get cooking!
Korean Ground Beef Bowl with Rice
A flavorful and filling bowl dish that combines the savory taste of ground beef with the comfort of warm rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add garlic, soy sauce, Gochujang, and sesame oil to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors are well combined.
3. Serve the ground beef mixture over cooked white rice in a bowl.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry
This bold and flavorful stir-fry combines tender beef with the pungency of Thai basil, the spiciness of chili peppers, and the nuttiness of peanuts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves
– 1-2 dried red chili peppers, crushed or 1-2 tsp sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and crushed chili peppers (or sriracha sauce). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add Thai basil leaves and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Stir in peanuts and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Japanese Hambagu Steak with Teriyaki Glaze
Experience the harmonious blend of Japanese flavors with this mouth-watering hambagu steak, smothered in a rich teriyaki glaze. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 beef sirloin steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (optional)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, and pepper. Coat each steak with the mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Grill steaks for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Meanwhile, combine teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sake (if using), and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Brush the glaze onto the grilled steaks during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chinese Mapo Tofu with Ground Beef
This classic Sichuan dish combines the creaminess of tofu with the savory flavor of ground beef, all wrapped up in a spicy and aromatic sauce. A perfect combination for a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Remove the cooked beef from the wok and set aside. In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, garlic, and ginger paste. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the tofu cubes to the wok and stir-fry until they’re lightly browned.
5. Pour in the soy sauce mixture and bring to a simmer. Return the cooked ground beef to the wok and stir-fry everything together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Beef Lettuce Wraps
Experience the bold flavors of Vietnam with this refreshing twist on traditional beef wraps. Crisp lettuce leaves wrapped around tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty lemongrass sauce make for a delightful meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, cilantro, mint)
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
3. Assemble wraps by placing sliced beef onto lettuce leaves, followed by cucumber, carrot, and lemongrass sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Filipino Beef Picadillo with Potatoes
This classic Filipino recipe combines tender beef, savory spices, and creamy potatoes for a satisfying meal. With its rich flavor profile and comforting texture, this picadillo is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons patis (fish sauce) or oyster sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced potato, soy sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Beef Larb Salad with Fresh Herbs
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the bold flavors of Thai beef larb with the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (rare steak or brisket), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and chili flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine beef, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, and lime juice. Mix well.
2. Let the mixture marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Just before serving, stir in chopped cilantro and mint leaves.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and chili flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (marinating time not included)
Enjoy your delicious Thai Beef Larb Salad with Fresh Herbs!
Korean Ground Beef Tacos with Kimchi
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with the comfort of tacos, featuring spicy ground beef and tangy kimchi. Perfect for adventurous eaters, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add Gochujang, soy sauce, and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas and topping with chopped kimchi. Add optional toppings as desired.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be ready in just 20 minutes. With this simple recipe, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, broccoli, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute to combine with the vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Japanese Gyudon Beef Bowl
This popular Japanese comfort food is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines tender beef, savory soy sauce, and creamy onions in a rich broth served over steamed rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or beef broth)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry white wine
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
– Cooked Japanese rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove beef from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic and cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine dashi broth, soy sauce, sake or white wine, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked beef back into the skillet with the onions and pour in the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot over steamed Japanese rice, garnished with green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Beef Pho Noodle Soup
This classic Vietnamese soup is a staple of street food culture, made with rich beef broth, tender noodles, and thinly sliced rare steak. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (preferably oxtail or beef neck)
– 2 pounds beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Fresh herbs (basil, mint, cilantro), for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Simmer beef bones and broth in a large pot for at least 1 hour.
2. Add fish sauce, soy sauce, onion, garlic, star anise, cinnamon stick, and ginger to the pot. Simmer for another 30 minutes.
3. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
4. Slice beef into thin strips and add to the soup.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot with noodles, herbs, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Thai Beef Panang Curry
This rich and creamy Thai curry is a flavorful blend of beef, peanuts, and spices that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Bangkok. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this authentic-tasting dish in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Panang curry paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add beef strips; cook until browned (5-6 minutes).
4. Stir in Panang curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk, beef broth, and peanuts; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Ground Beef Dumplings
Savor the flavors of Korea with these deliciously simple ground beef dumplings, wrapped in a crispy and chewy wrapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup kimchi, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, kimchi, onion, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the ground beef mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook dumplings by pan-frying them in oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes for all dumplings.
Chinese Beef and Eggplant Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese stir-fry dish that combines tender beef, savory eggplant, and crunchy vegetables in a flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to the wok. Add the eggplant and bell peppers; stir-fry for 5 minutes or until tender.
4. Add the garlic and cooked beef back into the wok; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of water. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the wok; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Sukiyaki with Ground Beef
Sukiyaki is a popular Japanese hot pot dish that originated in the Tokyo region. This recipe uses ground beef as the protein, but feel free to substitute it with chicken or pork if you prefer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cups dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or beef stock)
– 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
– 1/2 cup sliced onions
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
– Noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ground beef, soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add dashi broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Add mushrooms and onions to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Serve hot with noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Beef Massaman Curry
Massaman curry, a rich and aromatic Thai dish, is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. This recipe combines tender beef with a flavorful curry paste, potatoes, peanuts, and onions to create a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons Massaman curry paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1/4 cup peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove beef from pan and set aside. Add onions and potatoes; cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in Massaman curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk, peanuts, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Return beef to pan and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until beef is tender.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Ground Beef Bibimbap
Bibimbap, a signature Korean dish, is a harmonious blend of savory ground beef and mixed vegetables served over a bed of warm white rice. This recipe offers a flavorful and nutritious take on the classic bibimbap.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, shredded carrots, diced zucchini)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add soy sauce, Gochujang, and black pepper to the beef mixture; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Push the beef mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the beef.
6. To assemble, place a scoop of rice on a plate, followed by a portion of the ground beef mixture, and top with mixed vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Beef and Green Bean Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese stir-fry recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender beef, crisp green beans, and savory aromatics. With its bold flavors and textures, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Remove from the wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Return the beef to the wok and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Vietnamese Beef Banh Mi Sandwich
This flavorful sandwich combines tender grilled beef, crispy pickled vegetables, and creamy mayonnaise on a crunchy baguette, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as flank steak or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 4 baguettes
– Pickled vegetables (such as carrots, daikon, and cucumber)
– Mayonnaise
– Cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil. Add the sliced beef and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill the beef until cooked to desired level of doneness. Slice into thin strips.
3. Toast the baguettes and spread with mayonnaise.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the grilled beef on top of the mayonnaise, followed by pickled vegetables and cilantro leaves.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Beef Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with these tender beef satay skewers served with a creamy and nutty peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– Peanut Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, brown sugar, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Add beef strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Thread marinated beef onto prepared skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill satay skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Serve with Peanut Sauce (recipe below).
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including marinating time)
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 delicious and flavorful Asian ground beef recipes! From Korean Ground Beef Bowl with Rice to Thai Beef Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce, this collection has something for everyone. Enjoy classic dishes like Japanese Hambagu Steak with Teriyaki Glaze and Chinese Mapo Tofu with Ground Beef, as well as innovative twists like Korean Ground Beef Tacos with Kimchi and Vietnamese Lemongrass Beef Lettuce Wraps. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty bowl or a quick stir-fry, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
