This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is just a bowl of joy! It combines tender beef with colorful peppers over a bed of fluffy rice, making it super tasty and fun to eat.
I love how easy this dish is to whip up for dinner, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies—more colors, more fun! 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: White rice works perfectly for this recipe, but jasmine rice adds a lovely fragrance. If you’re looking for a healthier option, brown rice can be used, though it may require more water and a longer cooking time.
Ground Beef: While ground beef is traditional, you could try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian version. They all cook similarly but may alter the flavor slightly.
Bell Pepper: Red bell pepper is sweet and colorful, but feel free to mix it up! Green or yellow bell peppers can also be used; they have their own unique taste. If you’re in the mood for some heat, spicy jalapeños or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes would be great.
Oyster Sauce: This adds a deep umami flavor, but if you prefer a vegetarian option, you can leave it out or use mushroom sauce instead. Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce could also work as a substitute.
How Do I Cook Rice Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking rice can be tricky, but following a few key steps makes it easy! Rinse the rice first to remove excess starch; this helps prevent it from becoming too sticky.
- Use a pot with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam.
- Always follow the 2:1 water-to-rice ratio for white or jasmine rice.
- Once it boils, reduce to low heat immediately and cover the pot.
- Let it sit covered after cooking; this allows the steam to finish cooking the rice perfectly.
Delicious Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 cups water
For the Beef and Vegetables:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil for frying
For the Sauces and Flavor:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl takes about 30 minutes in total—15 minutes to cook the rice and around 15 minutes to prepare the beef and vegetables. It’s a quick and fulfilling meal perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Rice:
Start by rinsing the cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch for fluffier rice. Next, in a pot, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. After that, remove it from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 10 minutes to steam. This step is key for fluffy rice!
2. Cooking the Beef:
While the rice is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat a tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds, or until you can smell its wonderful aroma. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked, which should take around 6-8 minutes.
3. Adding the Vegetables and Sauces:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the diced red bell pepper, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, ground black pepper, and salt. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes. This allows the flavors to combine and the pepper to become tender. You’ll love the colors and smells at this stage!
4. Bringing it All Together:
Now, it’s time to fluff that cooked rice with a fork and divide it evenly into serving bowls. Top each bowl with the delicious beef and pepper mixture you just cooked up. To finish, garnish your bowl with chopped green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a little extra crunch and flavor. Enjoy your delightful Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. Use the ratio of 2 1/2 cups of water for every 1 cup of brown rice and simmer for about 40-45 minutes instead.
What Can I Substitute for Oyster Sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce or prefer not to use it, a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of sugar can work as a substitute. Use 1 tablespoon of soy sauce mixed with 1 teaspoon of brown sugar for a similar flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if the rice seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, such as carrots, snow peas, or broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender but not overcooked.
