High-Protein Korean Beef Recipe for the Slow Cooker

### High-Protein Slow Cooker Korean Beef Recipe

Korean cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors and distinctive ingredient pairings. One notable dish is Korean beef, which is not only tasty but can also be prepared in a healthy, high-protein version using a slow cooker. This recipe is ideal for busy individuals or families in search of a wholesome meal that demands minimal effort.

#### Ingredients

– **2 lbs beef chuck roast** (or flank steak), chopped into bite-sized pieces
– **1/2 cup soy sauce** (low-sodium for a healthier alternative)
– **1/4 cup brown sugar** (or a sugar substitute)
– **1/4 cup rice vinegar**
– **1 tablespoon sesame oil**
– **4 cloves garlic**, minced
– **1 tablespoon fresh ginger**, grated
– **1 teaspoon red pepper flakes** (adjust to preference)
– **1/2 cup beef broth** (low-sodium)
– **1 cup carrots**, sliced
– **1 cup bell peppers**, sliced (any color)
– **1/2 cup green onions**, chopped (for garnish)
– **Sesame seeds** (for garnish)
– **Cooked brown rice or quinoa** (for serving)

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Beef**: Begin by trimming any excess fat off the beef chuck roast. Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

2. **Make the Marinade**: In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, red pepper flakes, and beef broth. This blend will function as the marinade and cooking liquid.

3. **Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker**: Place the beef pieces into the slow cooker. Pour the marinade over the beef, making sure all pieces are thoroughly coated. Add the sliced carrots and bell peppers on top of the beef.

4. **Cook**: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The extended cooking time allows the flavors to combine and the beef to become tender.

5. **Serve**: Once cooked, shred the beef with two forks if preferred, or serve the pieces whole. Spoon the beef and vegetables over cooked brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

#### Nutritional Benefits

This high-protein slow cooker Korean beef recipe is not only fulfilling but also rich in nutrients. Beef provides a great source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, which are crucial for energy and overall well-being. By using low-sodium soy sauce and including vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, the dish achieves a balance of vitamins and minerals while maintaining controlled sodium levels.

#### Tips for Customization

– **Vegetable Variations**: You can add other vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for increased nutrition and flavor.
– **Spice Level**: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes to match your spice preference. For a milder dish, decrease the quantity or leave it out completely.
– **Serving Options**: This dish can be served with lettuce wraps for a low-carb choice or over cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.

#### Conclusion

This high-protein slow cooker Korean beef recipe is a practical and flavorful method to enjoy a taste of Korea in your home. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it serves as a perfect meal for any day of the week. Relish the simplicity of preparation and the delight of a hearty, healthy meal that the entire family will appreciate.