This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a tasty meal that’s quick and easy to make. Juicy beef, colorful peppers, and fluffy rice come together for a filling dish that will please any crowd!
Trust me, the flavors blend so well you’ll want to make this every week. I love topping mine with a bit of soy sauce. It adds a delicious touch that takes it to the next level!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I recommend using jasmine rice for its fragrant qualities, but you can substitute with basmati or even brown rice for a nuttier flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary with different types.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is perfect here, but you could easily swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using crumbled tofu or tempeh.
Red Bell Pepper: Red bell peppers add sweetness. If you’re out of them, any color of bell pepper works! You could also try using mushrooms or zucchini for a different twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Use about 1/8 teaspoon for every clove you would normally use.
Oyster Sauce: This ingredient enhances the umami flavor, but if you need a substitute, try a mix of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar to mimic the tanginess.
How Do I Ensure My Rice Comes Out Perfectly Fluffy?
Getting the rice just right can be tricky. The key is to rinse it! Rinsing removes excess starch, preventing the rice from turning gummy. Here’s how to get it fluffy:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes starch.
- Bring water to a boil, then add the rinsed rice, cover tightly, and reduce the heat to low.
- Let it simmer without lifting the lid for 15 minutes, then let it sit covered for another 5 minutes to steam.
Trust me, this will make your rice light and fluffy every time!
How to Make Beef And Pepper Rice Bowl?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Rice:
- 1 cup white or jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
For The Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You will spend about 15 minutes cooking the rice while you prepare the beef mixture, which takes another 10-15 minutes. Quick, simple, and oh-so-tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Rice:
First, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice, cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. After that, remove it from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes to finish cooking.
2. Preparing the Beef Mixture:
While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—this makes your kitchen smell fantastic!
3. Cooking the Beef:
Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes until it is browned and fully cooked. If there’s excess fat, drain it out to keep the dish from being too greasy.
4. Adding Veggies:
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper has softened a little. This adds a nice crunch and flavor to the dish!
5. Bringing It All Together:
Now, add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well and cook for another minute to let those lovely flavors meld together.
6. Serving Up:
It’s time to enjoy! Serve the beef mixture over a bed of the cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra crunch and flavor.
7. Dig In!
Enjoy your delicious Beef And Pepper Rice Bowl while it’s hot! You’ll love every bite!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White or Jasmine Rice?
Absolutely! If you decide to use brown rice, just keep in mind that it requires more water and a longer cooking time. Use 2 ½ cups of water for 1 cup of brown rice, and simmer it for about 40-45 minutes or until tender.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a leaner option or just want to switch things up, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead. For a vegetarian option, try using crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat substitute. Just ensure to season well to maintain flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the beef mixture separately from the rice. Just make sure to cool everything completely before freezing!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables. Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots make great additions. Just chop them up and sauté them along with the bell pepper for a colorful boost of nutrition!
