This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a yummy meal that’s easy to whip up! With juicy beef and colorful peppers on a bed of rice, it’s not just tasty but also fun to eat.
I love to add a drizzle of soy sauce for extra flavor! Plus, it’s great for busy nights since you can have it ready in no time. Who doesn’t love a simple, hearty dish? 🍚🥩
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jasmine Rice: This rice has a lovely fragrant taste that pairs well with the beef and peppers. If you don’t have jasmine rice, try basmati rice or even brown rice for a healthier option, though cooking times may vary.
Ground Beef: I prefer 80/20 beef for a good balance of flavor and fat. You could use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner dish, or even plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Bell Peppers: Red and green peppers add color and crunch. Feel free to mix in yellow or orange peppers, or use just one color if that’s what you have on hand. Can’t find bell peppers? Zucchini or broccoli could be nice substitutions!
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh is best, but if you’re in a pinch, use powdered garlic and ginger. I love the flavor fresh herbs provide, but sometimes convenience wins.
Oyster Sauce: This sauce adds depth to the dish, but it’s optional. If you’re avoiding shellfish, try soy sauce or hoisin sauce instead, or just skip it altogether for a simpler taste.
How Do I Ensure My Rice Turns Out Perfectly?
Getting the rice right is crucial for a great base. First, rinse the jasmine rice well under cold water to remove excess starch, which helps keep it from getting gummy. This step is key!
- Boil 2 cups of water in a pot before adding the rinsed rice.
- Once you add the rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover. This keeps the steam in for fluffy grains.
- Let it sit off the heat for 5 extra minutes to let it finish cooking in its steam. Trust me, this makes a difference!
How to Make a Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish and cooking)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 15 minutes cooking the rice while the beef and peppers are sizzling away. You’ll then garnish and serve it right after. Simple and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by rinsing the jasmine 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 rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, then cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. The rice will absorb all the water and become tender. After it’s cooked, let it sit covered for another 5 minutes to fluff up.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about 30 seconds or until they smell wonderful—this is where the magic begins!
3. Cook the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 6-8 minutes until it’s no longer pink. If there’s a lot of fat, drain some of it out so your dish isn’t greasy.
4. Add the Peppers:
Now it’s time to add some color! Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers. Sauté everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peppers start to soften. You want them to maintain some crunch, so don’t overcook!
5. Flavor it Up:
Pour in the soy sauce and add the oyster sauce if you’re using it. Mix everything together well, and let it cook for another minute to let the flavors meld. Taste and add a bit of salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve:
To serve, scoop a generous amount of the cooked rice into a bowl. Top it with the tasty beef and pepper mixture. Make it look nice, you want this to be as appetizing as it is tasty!
7. Garnish:
Finish your dish by sprinkling chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top. These little touches add flavor and a lovely crunch!
8. Enjoy:
Serve your Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl right away while it’s hot. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Rice?
Absolutely! You can substitute jasmine rice with basmati or even white rice. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; for brown rice, increase the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes and use a bit more water.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a healthier or alternative protein option, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as leaner meats may cook faster.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! For some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeños, or a dash of sriracha to the beef mixture while cooking. Adjust according to your taste preferences!
