This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a tasty dish that brings together tender beef, colorful peppers, and fluffy rice all in one bowl. It’s quick to make and perfect for a busy night!
I love how the vibrant peppers add a pop of color and crunch. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or sauces. You won’t want to share this meal! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can use lean ground beef or even ground turkey for a lighter option. If you want to go plant-based, try using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives, which can work well!
Bell Peppers: Red bell peppers add sweetness, but feel free to mix in other colors! Green bell peppers are optional; they add a bit of bitterness. For spice, you could substitute with diced jalapeños or even use zucchini for a different taste.
Soy Sauce: This adds a savory flavor, but if you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium soy sauce. For a gluten-free option, tamari works perfectly!
Oyster Sauce: While optional, this sauce gives an umami kick. If you can’t find it or prefer not to use it, try hoisin sauce or even a splash of more soy sauce for a decent substitute.
Sesame Oil: Adds a nice nutty flavor. However, if you don’t have it, you can use olive oil or sunflower oil, but you might miss out on that unique taste.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef properly can make all the difference in texture and flavor. Here’s how to ensure you get it just right:
- Heat the pan well: Start with a medium-high heat. This helps create a nice sear on the beef, locking in juices.
- Don’t overcrowd: If you’re using more than a pound, cook the beef in batches. This helps it brown evenly.
- Break it up: As it cooks, break the beef into smaller pieces with your spatula. This ensures even cooking and a nice texture.
- Cook until browned: Aim for a rich brown color for the best flavor! This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
How to Make Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For The Rice Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 3 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to delicious finish. It’s quick and perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté them for about 30 seconds or until they smell fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, using a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until the beef is nicely browned. This step adds lots of flavor!
3. Cook the Peppers:
Next, toss in the diced red and green bell peppers. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the peppers become tender. This adds a lovely color and sweetness to the dish!
4. Combine the Sauces:
Now, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, and the sliced green onions. Stir everything well to combine and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a taste to adjust the seasoning if needed!
5. Assemble the Rice Bowls:
To serve, take a generous scoop of the beef mixture and place it over a bed of cooked white rice in bowls. It’s all about that beautiful presentation!
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish off your beef and pepper rice bowl by garnishing it with extra sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Now it’s ready to enjoy—dig in!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just adjust the cooking time slightly; it may take a few extra minutes to cook through. Also, consider adding a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor since these meats can be milder.
What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
No worries! You can simply omit the oyster sauce if you don’t have any on hand. Alternatively, you can use hoisin sauce or a little extra soy sauce mixed with a pinch of sugar to mimic the sweetness of oyster sauce.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in a covered dish or warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition and color. Just chop them into small pieces and stir them in with the bell peppers, allowing a bit more cooking time if needed until they are tender.
