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Tasty Spicy Keto Korean Ground Beef

A bold, flavorful, and low-carb skillet meal perfect for busy weeknights. Savory ground beef, garlic, ginger, and a touch of heat combine into a satisfying Korean-inspired dish.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • Protein & Oil
  • 1 lb 450 g ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Aromatics & Flavor
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes or Korean gochugaru
  • Sauce
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar substitute allulose, monk fruit, or erythritol
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • Garnish
  • 2 green onions sliced
  • Optional: sesame seeds
  • Optional: extra chili flakes for spice lovers

Instructions
 

  • Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spatula. Allow the beef to render its fat and develop a rich, savory base. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Add aromatics: Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (or gochugaru). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, letting the aromatics infuse the beef with flavor.
  • Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce (or coconut aminos), sesame oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar substitute, and tomato paste until smooth.
  • Combine sauce and beef: Pour the sauce over the browned beef. Stir well to coat all pieces evenly. Reduce heat slightly and let simmer for 3–5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and meld with the beef.
  • Finish with freshness: Add sliced green onions and optional extra chili flakes for heat. Stir gently, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before serving.

Notes

Protein Variations: Ground turkey or chicken works well.
Veggies: Fold in shredded cabbage, spinach, or bell peppers for extra texture.
Adjust Heat: Increase or decrease red pepper flakes or gochugaru to control spiciness.
Sweetness: Adjust the brown sugar substitute to taste depending on your keto sweetener brand.