This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a winner! It’s packed with tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice, bringing a tasty meal together in one bowl.
I love how quick it is to make—perfect for busy nights! Just fry up the beef and veggies, serve over rice, and you’ve got a delicious dinner that the whole family will adore.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Rice: This recipe calls for white rice, which gives a fluffy texture. You can easily swap it for brown rice, but keep in mind that you’ll need to cook it a bit longer and use more water.
Ground Beef: While ground beef is a classic choice here, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, crumbled tofu or tempeh works great too!
Bell Peppers: I used red bell peppers for their sweetness, but any color works! Green or yellow peppers are perfect substitutes. If you’re not a fan of peppers, consider adding steamed broccoli or snap peas instead.
Oyster Sauce: Though optional, oyster sauce adds a nice umami flavor. If you’re vegetarian, use a mushroom-based sauce or simply leave it out for a lighter taste.
How Do I Cook the Rice Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking rice may seem simple, but there’s a trick to getting it just right. Rinsing the rice under cold water removes excess starch that can make it sticky. Here’s a quick guide:
- Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Combine 1 cup of rinsed rice with 2 cups of water in a pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to low heat and cover.
- Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until all the water is absorbed.
- After removing from heat, keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
How to Make Beef And Pepper Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups water
For the Beef and Veggies:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 15 minutes cooking the rice while simultaneously preparing the beef and veggies, making it a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed. Remove it from the heat, keep it covered, and allow it to sit for 5 more minutes to fluff up nicely.
2. Prepare the Beef and Veggies:
While the rice is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring them for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. Next, add the ground beef into the skillet. Cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked, usually about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper while cooking!
3. Add the Bell Pepper and Sauces:
Once the beef is cooked, toss in the diced red bell pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper becomes slightly tender. Now, pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and sesame oil. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional minute for the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, take a generous scoop of the fluffy rice and place it in a bowl. Top it with the delicious beef and pepper mixture. Garnish with extra sliced green onions and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds for a lovely presentation. Enjoy your Beef And Pepper Rice Bowl hot—it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Typically, brown rice needs about 40-50 minutes to cook with a water ratio of 2.5 cups of water to 1 cup of rice. Adjust the water and cooking time accordingly for best results!
What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
No problem! If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can omit it entirely or substitute it with hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar for sweetness. It may slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Prepare This Bowl Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the rice and beef mixture in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat everything together in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to eat.
How to Adjust Spice Level?
If you want to add a kick to your Beef And Pepper Rice Bowl, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the beef mixture. If you prefer it milder, just skip the extra spices or use less ginger and garlic, which can also add heat.
