This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a delightful mix of tender beef and colorful bell peppers served over fluffy rice. It’s quick to make and full of flavor!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a one-bowl dinner? It’s perfect for busy nights when you just want something tasty without the fuss. I enjoy loading mine up with extra peppers for a pop of color!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jasmine Rice: This rice is fragrant and fluffy, great for this dish. If you can’t find it, try basmati or even brown rice. Just remember, brown rice may take longer to cook!
Ground Beef: I love using 80/20 ground beef for its juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work, too. For a vegetarian twist, try crumbled tofu or lentils!
Red Bell Pepper: This adds sweetness and color. Feel free to swap it with yellow or green bell peppers, or even zucchini for a different flavor profile.
Sauces: Soy sauce is a must for flavor. If you want a gluten-free option, use tamari. Oyster sauce adds richness, but it’s fine to leave it out if you’re avoiding seafood. A little extra soy sauce can fill its role!
How Do I Cook Rice Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking rice can be tricky, but here’s a simple method that works well. Rinse the rice under cold water first to remove excess starch—this helps it stay fluffy.
- In a saucepan, combine the washed rice and 2 cups of water. Add a pinch of salt if desired.
- Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat, cover tightly, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Don’t lift the lid while it’s cooking!
- Once done, remove from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff it gently with a fork before serving.
How to Make a Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine rice (or rice of your choice)
- 2 cups water
For the Beef and Vegetables:
- 1 pound ground beef (or minced beef)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)
- Salt, to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You will spend approximately 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and delicious meal that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Rice:
First, get your rice cooking! In a saucepan, combine the jasmine rice and 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once it boils, lower the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. The goal is for all the water to be absorbed and the rice to become tender. Once done, take it off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to fluff up.
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
While your rice is cooking, heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it smells really good and fragrant. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t burn!
3. Cooking the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir it around and let it brown for about 6-8 minutes until it’s fully cooked. If there’s extra fat, drain it off, so your dish doesn’t get too greasy.
4. Adding Veggies:
Time to add some color! Stir in the diced red bell pepper and the chopped green onions (don’t forget to save some green onions for later!). Continue cooking everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the peppers are just starting to soften.
5. Flavoring the Dish:
Now, it’s sauce time! Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt to the skillet. Mix it all well and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend together beautifully.
6. Serving Up:
Everything is almost ready! To serve, spoon the cooked rice into bowls, and then pile on that delicious beef and pepper mixture on top. Finish it off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and some extra green onions for garnish. Enjoy your Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl—it’s a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to please!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Jasmine Rice?
Absolutely! You can substitute brown rice for jasmine rice, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. Use 2 1/4 cups of water and simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until tender. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To boost the nutritional value, consider using lean ground beef or replacing it with ground turkey or chicken. You can also add more veggies, like zucchini or carrots, to the mix for added fiber and vitamins!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave until warmed through, or heat gently in a skillet to keep the texture nice.
What Can I Substitute for Oyster Sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, a mixture of soy sauce with a dash of sugar and a bit of cornstarch can work as a substitute. The sweetness helps mimic the flavor profile of oyster sauce without compromising the overall taste of the dish!
