This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a tasty dish that brings together juicy beef, colorful peppers, and fluffy rice. It’s simple to whip up and perfect for any meal!
I love how quick it comes together—you can have dinner on the table in no time! Plus, the colors make it look extra inviting. Who doesn’t love a pretty plate of food? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe shines with ground beef, but you can easily swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer plant-based meals, try using lentils or crumbled tofu cooked in the same way.
Bell Pepper: Red bell peppers add sweetness and color. If you have green or yellow peppers, they work just as well! For more flavor, consider using poblano or Anaheim peppers.
Green Onions: They offer a fresh crunch. You could use regular onions if you don’t have green onions; just keep the amount smaller since regular onions are more potent.
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth to the dish, but if you’re vegetarian or don’t have it, you can skip it or use hoisin sauce as a substitute for a different twist.
Sesame Oil: It’s such a nice finishing touch. If you don’t have it, a drizzle of olive oil can work in a pinch, but you’ll miss that nutty flavor. I’m a fan of sesame oil for that reason!
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef might seem simple, but getting it just right is key. The aim is to achieve good flavor and texture. Here’s how you’re going to do it:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high heat before adding oil. This helps the beef brown nicely.
- Add minced garlic first to flavor the oil. Let it cook until fragrant—a quick 30 seconds should do.
- Add the beef, breaking it apart with your spatula. This ensures even cooking.
- Let the beef sit for 1-2 minutes before stirring, allowing browning for better flavor.
- Continue cooking until it’s fully browned, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Remember, don’t rush it! A little patience goes a long way in building that rich flavor.
How to Make Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice Bowl:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp black sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. In just under a quarter of an hour, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, making sure not to burn it!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Continue cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
3. Add the Bell Pepper:
Now, stir in the diced red bell pepper. Cook everything for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers have softened slightly and are vibrant in color.
4. Mix in the Sauces:
Pour in the soy sauce, adding the oyster sauce if you’re using it, along with the sesame oil. Mix everything well to combine and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld together nicely.
5. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the white parts of the sliced green onions and black sesame seeds over the beef mixture. This adds flavor and a nice crunch!
6. Serve the Bowl:
To plate your dish, grab a generous portion of the cooked white rice and place it in a bowl. Top it with the savory beef and pepper mixture you just made.
7. Garnish and Enjoy!
Finish your dish by garnishing it with the green parts of the green onions and a few extra sesame seeds if you like. Now, dig in and enjoy your tasty Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a healthy alternative, but keep in mind it takes longer to cook. Make sure your brown rice is fully cooked before serving, as it typically requires about 45-50 minutes to cook compared to the 15-20 minutes for white rice.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can easily customize this dish! Consider adding diced carrots, snap peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and adjust cooking times as necessary—cooking them until they’re tender but still crisp!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, either microwave for a quick meal or warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. You can replace oyster sauce with a gluten-free variation or simply omit it for a tasty dish free of gluten!
