Crockpot/Slow Cooker A 6-quart model works best to fit the beef and allow for good heat circulation.
Cutting board and knife For prepping the beef and scallions.
Small bowl To mix the cornstarch slurry.
Rice cooker or pot with lid For preparing the sticky rice. If you don’t have a rice cooker, a heavy-bottomed saucepan with a tight-fitting lid works just as well.
Tongs or slotted spoon To transfer the beef.
Serving dishes Deep bowls are perfect for layering the rice and beef.
Ingredients
For the Beef
2.5 to 3poundsbeef chuck roast or brisketcut into large chunks
1/2cuplow sodium soy sauce
1/4cupdark brown sugar
1tablespoonsesame oil
1tablespoonfreshly grated ginger
4clovesgarlicminced
2tablespoonsrice vinegar
1tablespoongochujangKorean chili paste – optional for heat
1tablespooncornstarchfor thickening sauce
1/4cupwaterto mix with cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
2bunches scallionscut into 1-inch pieces (green and white parts separated)
For Serving
2cupssticky riceshort grain white rice or sushi rice, cooked
Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Thinly sliced scallionsfrom green parts for garnish
Kimchioptional side
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Beef
Trim excess fat from your chuck roast or brisket and cut the meat into large 2- to 3-inch chunks. This allows the beef to cook evenly and absorb flavor deeply as it slow cooks.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and gochujang (if using). Stir well until the sugar has dissolved and everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Load the Crockpot
Place the beef into your slow cooker. Pour the marinade over the beef, tossing gently to ensure all pieces are coated. Add the white parts of the scallions. Cover with the lid.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Set your crockpot on low and cook for 6 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. If you're short on time, the high setting for 4 hours works, but the longer cook delivers better flavor and texture.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Once the beef is done, use a slotted spoon to remove the meat and set it aside. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water to make a slurry. Pour this into the sauce remaining in the crockpot and stir well. Set the crockpot to high and let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Return the beef to the crockpot and add the green parts of the scallions. Let everything warm through for 5 more minutes.
Serve hot over a generous portion of sticky rice. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and additional scallions. A side of kimchi or lightly pickled vegetables adds a refreshing contrast.