Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3 cups cooked jasmine rice
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions:

  1. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil followed by the ground beef.
  2. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef into large chunks, then leave undisturbed for 3 minutes to allow a mahogany crust to form via the Maillard reaction.
  3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant and the volatile oils bloom.
  4. Whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Pour the mixture over the beef.
  5. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces into a sticky glaze that coats the meat.
  6. Serve the beef over bowls of warm rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.