Description
These Korean BBQ Meatballs combine lean ground beef with traditional Korean flavors like soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger, creating a deliciously savory and slightly sweet dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining. The meatballs are tender and packed with flavor, cooked to perfection on the stovetop and served with a luscious sauce made from low sodium stock and honey. Garnished with sesame seeds and scallions, this recipe offers an easy and satisfying way to enjoy Korean-inspired cuisine at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 pound lean ground beef (turkey or pork work too)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 scallion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 handful cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for baking or frying
Sauce
- 1 cup low sodium chicken or beef stock
- 4 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons runny honey
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic powder
- 1-2 scallions, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, finely chopped scallion, egg, breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated to create the meatball mixture.
- Form and cook the meatballs: Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil to prevent sticking. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce and combine: In the same skillet, combine the low sodium stock, soy sauce, runny honey, cornstarch, sesame oil, ground ginger, and dried garlic powder. Whisk the sauce ingredients together and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sauce thickens. Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet and coat them in the sauce. Cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or pork for beef for a leaner or different flavor profile.
- Adjust the honey amount to taste for more or less sweetness.
- Serve these meatballs with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan while cooking the meatballs to ensure even browning.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free soy sauce.
