This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a tasty and colorful dish that’s super easy to make! With juicy beef, crunchy peppers, and fluffy rice, it’s a meal that brings smiles.
You can dress it up with your favorite sauce and toppings! I love adding a dash of soy sauce—it really makes the flavors pop. Give it a try and you might find yourself wanting seconds! 🍚✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I love using jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma and slightly nutty flavor. However, white rice works just as well. If you’re after a healthier twist, try brown rice or quinoa, but adjust the cooking time accordingly since they may take longer to cook.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is my go-to for this dish. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. For a plant-based version, consider crumbled tempeh or mushrooms, which add a nice texture.
Bell Pepper: A red bell pepper adds sweetness, but you can mix it up with yellow or green peppers for a different taste. I sometimes add mini sweet peppers for extra color. If you want a kick, try using jalapeños instead!
Sauces: Soy sauce adds saltiness, while hoisin brings a hint of sweetness. If you need a gluten-free option, coconut aminos can be a great substitute for soy sauce, and you can skip the hoisin or make a homemade version with peanut butter and maple syrup.
How Can I Cook Rice Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking rice can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can achieve perfectly fluffy rice. First, rinse your rice under cold water. This removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming gummy. Here’s what to do:
- Combine rinsed rice and water in a medium saucepan (1 cup rice to 2 cups water is a good ratio).
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- When water is absorbed, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the rice to finish cooking in steam.
- Fluff with a fork before serving to separate the grains.
How to Make a Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 cups water
For the Beef and Peppers:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauces:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish (optional):
- 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend 15 minutes cooking the rice and another 15 minutes preparing the beef and peppers. Simple and quick for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Beef:
While the rice is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Add the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. As it cooks, use a spatula to break the beef into smaller pieces. Season with salt and pepper to taste—you want it to be flavorful!
4. Mix in the Veggies:
Once the beef is cooked, it’s time to add the diced red bell pepper and chopped green onions to the skillet. Stir the veggies in and then add the soy sauce and hoisin sauce. Cook this mixture for another 3-4 minutes or until the peppers have softened a bit.
5. Assemble Your Bowls:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Serve the beef and pepper mixture over a generous scoop of fluffy rice. Don’t forget to garnish with extra chopped green onions and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds if you’re using them.
6. Enjoy!
Dig into your warm and flavorful Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl! It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Substitute Brown Rice for White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice can be used in place of white or jasmine rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice usually takes about 40-45 minutes to cook. Make sure to use 2 ½ cups of water for 1 cup of brown rice and follow the same rinsing and simmering directions.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a substitute, ground turkey or chicken works well and provides a lighter option. You could also use plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version. Just ensure that you cook it thoroughly, similar to the beef.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the beef and pepper mixture for up to 3 months. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or broccoli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly so that the veggies are tender but still retain some crunch. Add denser vegetables first and the quicker-cooking ones later in the sautéing process.
