Korean beef lettuce cups

Korean Beef Lettuce Cups feature marinated beef cooked with onions and garlic, served in fresh lettuce leaves for a light yet satisfying meal. This dish balances savory flavors with crisp textures, making it perfect for a quick dinner or appetizer.

05 Feb 2026
Cook time 2 min
Prep time 80 min

Ingredients:

1 lb beef
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp ginger root
2 tsp brown sugar
4 cups lettuce
1 cup basmati rice
1/3 cup scallions
2 red hot chili peppers

Korean Beef Lettuce Cups are a delicious and healthy dish that combines savory beef with fresh and crisp lettuce. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a light dinner or a satisfying appetizer. The combination of beef, aromatic vegetables, soy sauce, and spices creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. Let's dive into making this Korean-inspired delight!

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice:
1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, add the rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

2. Prepare the Beef Marinade:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger root, minced garlic, and brown sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and ingredients are well combined.
2. Add the thinly sliced beef to the bowl and mix to ensure the beef is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes to enhance the flavor.

3. Cook the Beef:
1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the marinated beef along with its marinade to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 8-10 minutes or until the beef is fully cooked and slightly caramelized.
3. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.

4. Assemble the Lettuce Cups:
1. Lay out the cleaned lettuce leaves on a serving platter.
2. Spoon a portion of the cooked basmati rice onto each lettuce leaf.
3. Top the rice with a serving of the cooked beef mixture.

5. Garnish:
1. Sprinkle the chopped scallions and sliced red hot chili peppers over the beef-filled lettuce cups.

6. Serve:
1. Serve immediately and enjoy these delicious and flavorful Korean beef lettuce cups!

Korean Beef Lettuce Cups are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal. This dish is easy to customize and perfect for those who want a quick and delicious meal without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Enjoy these lettuce cups as a light lunch, a flavorful snack, or a fun appetizer for your next gathering!

Korean beef lettuce cups FAQ:

What type of beef works best for this recipe?

For Korean Beef Lettuce Cups, flank steak or sirloin is ideal due to their tenderness and flavor. You can also use ground beef, as it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a skillet before serving. However, assemble the lettuce cups just before eating to keep the lettuce crisp.

How do I know when the beef is cooked through?

The beef is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and is browned with no pink remaining. It should take about 8-10 minutes of cooking over medium-high heat.

What can I substitute for soy sauce if I need a gluten-free option?

Use tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Coconut aminos is another good substitute that provides a similar flavor without gluten.

What is the best way to store leftover lettuce cups?

Store the beef mixture and lettuce leaves separately in airtight containers. The beef will last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, while the lettuce should be used within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Tips:

- Choose fresh and crisp lettuce as it serves as a vessel for the beef. Butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce works well.

- For a deeper flavor, marinate the beef mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili peppers according to your taste preference.

- Ensure the beef is finely chopped or thinly sliced for even cooking and better texture.

- Serve the lettuce cups with additional toppings like sesame seeds, shredded carrots, or a squeeze of lime for added freshness.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 470kcal
Protein 40g
Carbohydrates 27g
Fiber 2.73g
Sugar 6g
Fat 22g

Korean beef lettuce cups