why make this recipe
Korean-Style Ground Turkey is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors and a hint of spice. It’s simple to make and uses ground turkey, which is a leaner alternative to beef or pork. This recipe is healthy, quick to whip up, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s packed with flavors that everyone will love, making it a hit for both adults and kids.
how to make Ground Turkey
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tbsp brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (or to taste)
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
- 15 oz / 450g ground turkey
- 6 tbsp chives (chopped)
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
Directions:
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Mix until the cornstarch is dissolved and set aside.
- Drizzle a large skillet with sesame oil. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey and break it into small chunks while frying. Cook until the turkey loses its raw red color.
- Stir in the soy sauce mixture and keep over high heat for 2 more minutes until the sauce turns golden brown and fragrant. If the sauce is too thick, add 1 tbsp of water.
- Add chives (keeping some for garnishing) and turn off the heat.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with chopped chives. Serve with rice and vegetables.
how to serve Ground Turkey
Serve Korean-Style Ground Turkey with steamed rice or over a bed of fresh vegetables. It’s delicious on its own or you can wrap it in lettuce leaves for a fun crunch.
how to store Ground Turkey
To store any leftovers, let the turkey cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the turkey for up to 2 months; just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Ground Turkey
- Adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer chili flakes according to your taste.
- For added crunch, consider topping with chopped peanuts alongside sesame seeds.
- Serve with pickled vegetables for a more authentic Korean experience.
variation
You can easily switch up the protein by using ground chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. Alternatively, add more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas while cooking for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can cook the dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Is there a substitute for sesame oil?
A: Yes, you can use vegetable oil or peanut oil in place of sesame oil, but the flavor will be different.
Q: Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?
A: Absolutely! Honey or maple syrup can work as alternatives to brown sugar in this recipe.

Korean-Style Ground Turkey
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A delightful dish that combines savory flavors and a hint of spice, made with lean ground turkey. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tbsp brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (or to taste)
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
- 15 oz / 450g ground turkey
- 6 tbsp chives (chopped)
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Mix until the cornstarch is dissolved and set aside.
- Drizzle a large skillet with sesame oil. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey and break it into small chunks while frying. Cook until the turkey loses its raw red color.
- Stir in the soy sauce mixture and keep over high heat for 2 more minutes until the sauce turns golden brown and fragrant. If the sauce is too thick, add 1 tbsp of water.
- Add chives (keeping some for garnishing) and turn off the heat.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with chopped chives. Serve with rice and vegetables.
Notes
Adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer chili flakes. Serve with pickled vegetables for a more authentic Korean experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Korean



