Name: Easy Slow Cooker Korean Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 3-4 lbs boneless beef chuck roast, cut into 2-3 pieces; 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce; ½ cup packed light brown sugar; ½ cup water; ¼ cup unseasoned rice vinegar; 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil; 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced; 8 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 medium Asian pear (or Bosc pear), peeled and grated; 1-2 tbsp gochujang or Sriracha (optional); ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground; 2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening); 2 tbsp cold water (for thickening); ¼ cup fresh green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish); 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish); Steamed white or brown rice (for serving); Steamed broccoli or cucumber salad (for serving)

Why Make This Recipe

Easy Slow Cooker Korean Beef is a fantastic dish for anyone looking to enjoy flavorful, tender beef without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender while infusing it with a delicious marinade. Plus, it’s perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a hot, satisfying meal.

How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Korean Beef

Ingredients:

3-4 lbs boneless beef chuck roast, cut into 2-3 pieces

1 cup low-sodium soy sauce

½ cup packed light brown sugar

½ cup water

¼ cup unseasoned rice vinegar

2 tbsp toasted sesame oil

1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced

8 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

1 medium Asian pear (or Bosc pear), peeled and grated

1-2 tbsp gochujang or Sriracha (optional)

¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground

2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)

2 tbsp cold water (for thickening)

¼ cup fresh green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Steamed white or brown rice (for serving)

Steamed broccoli or cucumber salad (for serving)

Directions:

Pat dry the beef chuck roast and sear it in oil for richer flavor, if desired. Transfer to a slow cooker.

Prepare aromatics by slicing onion, mincing garlic, and grating ginger and pear.

In a bowl, whisk together grated pear, soy sauce, brown sugar, water, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, onion, gochujang/Sriracha, and pepper.

Pour the marinade over the beef, cover, and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.

After cooking, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces and return it to the cooker.

Mix cornstarch with cold water and whisk into the sauce to thicken.

Serve hot over rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Pair with steamed vegetables or salad.

How to Store Easy Slow Cooker Korean Beef

To store Easy Slow Cooker Korean Beef, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the beef in a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to 3 months. To reheat, simply heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use different cuts like brisket or even beef round, but cooking time may vary.

Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

What can I serve with Korean Beef?
It’s great served over rice, but you can also enjoy it with noodles, lettuce wraps, or even in tacos for a fusion twist.