This Easy Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a fun and tasty meal! You have juicy beef, colorful peppers, and fluffy rice all mixed together. It’s quick to make and full of flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using ground beef for its quick cooking time. However, lean turkey or chicken can be a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. You can also use plant-based beef for a vegetarian twist!
Bell Peppers: Red, green, and yellow peppers add a vibrant color mix. If you can’t find these, feel free to use whatever you have on hand, like zucchini or carrots. They’ll still add that colorful crunch!
Rice: I usually use white rice, but brown rice is a healthier choice. Quinoa or cauliflower rice also make great substitutes for a low-carb option.
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth to the flavor, but you can skip it if you prefer. A mix of soy sauce and a little sugar can give a similar sweet-savory balance.
How Do I Get My Beef Cooked Just Right?
Getting the beef perfectly cooked is key! Follow these simple steps:
- Start with medium-high heat to quickly sear the beef, giving it a nice brown color.
- Break the beef apart as it cooks, ensuring even browning and cooking throughout.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; this will help get that nice texture instead of boiling.
Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper halfway through to boost the flavor! Once it’s brown and cooked through, you’re ready for the next steps!
Easy Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or thinly sliced beef strips
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Time Needed:
This dish will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking it all up. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, keep it warm on the side while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable or sesame oil over medium-high heat. This will be the base for your flavorful stir-fry!
3. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
Add the minced garlic to the hot oil (and ginger if you chose to include it). Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
4. Cook the Beef:
Next, add your ground beef or sliced beef strips to the pan. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking the meat apart as it cooks. Season it lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor!
5. Add Veggies:
Stir in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry the mixture for about 4-5 minutes until the peppers are tender yet still a little crisp. We want that colorful crunch!
6. Combine Flavors:
Pour the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) into the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. This helps the flavors to meld beautifully!
7. Assemble the Bowls:
To serve, place a nice scoop of cooked rice in each bowl. Top it off generously with the beef and pepper mixture. It looks (and smells!) amazing!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for a lovely finish. Now dig in and enjoy your delicious and easy beef and pepper rice bowl!
This recipe is versatile and allows you to mix in other veggies you love, like mushrooms or snap peas. Feel free to get creative!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. You can let it sit in the fridge overnight or defrost it quickly in a microwave. Make sure to drain any excess moisture before adding it to the pan to achieve a nice sear!
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make this beef and pepper rice bowl gluten-free, simply substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. You can also skip the oyster sauce or look for a gluten-free version!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works wonderfully in this dish and adds a nuttier flavor. Just keep in mind that it may require a longer cooking time. Make sure it’s cooked and ready to go before you start the stir-fry!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!