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Ground Turkey Recipe (Korean-Style)
Rose Lewis

Easy and Tasty Ground Turkey Recipe (Korean-Style)

Well, as a mom, I'm always in pursuit of a dinner that fits the bill-easy, healthy, yummy, and something that can be thrown together in no time. Enter this Easy and Tasty Korean-Style Ground Turkey Recipe, which, by virtue of its savory, sweet, and very prepared-ahead ingredients, has become a weeknight rotation
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: korean
Calories: 330
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey 93% lean or higher for best texture
  • 3 cloves garlic finely minced (for aromatic depth)
  • 1½ tbsp fresh ginger grated (vibrant, citrusy warmth)
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce the umami backbone
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil for a toasty aroma
  • 2 tsp honey or pure maple syrup to balance the salt
  • 1 tsp gochujang Korean chili paste; optional but recommended
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil for cooking
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced, plus extra for garnish
  • 1 cup shredded napa cabbage or coleslaw mix adds crunch and color
  • 2 cups cooked rice white, brown, or cauliflower rice
  • Lime wedges sesame seeds, and cilantro leaves for garnish

Equipment

  • Large nonstick skillet or heavy-bottom pan for even heating
  • Mixing bowls: one for the marinade, one for the turkey
  • Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups for precise flavor balance
  • Grater for fresh ginger and optional Parmesan garnish
  • Spatula for breaking up meat and tossing ingredients
  • Rice cooker or pot (if serving over rice)

Method
 

  1. Step-by-Step Process
  2. Step one - Prepare the Marinade
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, gochujang, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. This mixture not only flavors the meat but also tenderizes it, ensuring every bite is succulent.
  4. Step Two - Marinate the Turkey
  5. Gently fold the ground turkey into the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes—or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor. Use this time to prep other ingredients or browse recipes like One-Pot Silky Garlic Butter Steak Pasta that you might try next.
  6. Step Three - Heat the Pan
  7. Place your skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the marinated turkey, breaking it into bite-sized pieces with your spatula.
  8. Step Four - Cook Thoroughly
  9. Let the turkey sizzle untouched for 2 minutes to develop a golden crust. Stir and continue cooking for 6–8 minutes until there’s no pink remaining. Avoid overcooking, as turkey can dry out quickly.
  10. Step Five - Add Vegetables
  11. Toss in shredded cabbage and half of the sliced green onions. Cook for an extra 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This adds freshness, color, and texture to your dish.
  12. Step - Six- Assemble and Garnish
  13. Spoon the hot turkey mixture over bowls of warm rice or wrap in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb twist. Garnish with remaining green onions, sesame seeds, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Notes

Special Tips from Mom Point Of You

  • Double the Marinade: Half should be set aside to drizzle over finished bowls.
  • Texture Matters: Large chunks of meat, medium chunks, and small chunks are all in the game if we want to aim for the restaurant-style look. 
  • Layer Flavors: Medium to lightly toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan before cooking.
  • Veggie Variations: Instead of shredded cabbage, try shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers.
  • Spice Control: Increase or decrease the gochujang or perhaps add more red pepper flakes for family preference. 
  • Rice Options: Try cauliflower rice or mix in certain amounts of some quinoa for that protein kick. 
  • Saucy Bowls: Mix a spoonful of creamy peanut butter with extra soy sauce for a fusion that defines Thai. 
  1. Garnish Game: Pickled red onions draw a tangy contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid For Better Result 

  1. Skipping Rest Time: Marination is crucial for depth—don’t rush it.
  2. High-Heat Overcooking: Medium-high heat is ideal; too hot and turkey dries out.
  3. Overcrowding: Cook in batches to maintain a golden sear.
  4. Excess Liquid: Drain off extra marinade juice before cooking to aid browning.
  5. Under Seasoning Rice: Add a pinch of salt or a dab of sesame oil to plain rice.
  6. Ignoring Acidity: Lime juice brightens flavors—never skip.
  7. No Garnish: Fresh herbs and seeds elevate both taste and presentation.
  8. Reheating Quick: Microwave can make turkey rubbery—opt for stovetop reheating.
    Share how you personalised it. Until next time, happy cooking and lots of love from my kitchen to yours— ❤️