This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a colorful meal packed with flavor! Tender beef strips, fresh peppers, and fluffy rice come together for a satisfying dish.
You can’t go wrong with the sweet and savory mix! I love loading mine with extra peppers. Who needs a salad when you have this bowl of yum? 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I used uncooked white rice for its quick cooking time and fluffy texture. If you prefer, brown rice is a great option, but it takes longer to cook. Quinoa can also be a fun twist if you’re looking for something different.
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and fat. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian choice, you can substitute with black beans or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
Bell Pepper: While I love the sweetness of red bell peppers, you can also use yellow or orange peppers. For a spicier kick, consider using jalapeños or serrano peppers. If you’re on a budget, frozen mixed bell peppers work too!
Soy Sauce: If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is a better choice. Alternatively, tamari is a gluten-free option that works just as well for flavor.
Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil adds great depth, but if you can’t find it, use olive oil or a blend as a substitute. Just keep in mind it won’t have the same nutty flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Rice Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking rice might seem simple, but there are ways to get it just right. Start by rinsing the rice thoroughly. This removes excess starch, helping it stay fluffy instead of sticky.
- Combine rinsed rice and water in a pot, and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot to trap steam. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
- After the time is up, take it off the heat, still covered, and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes. This step finishes the cooking process and helps it to fluff up nicely.
Using this method has always given me light and perfect rice without any fuss!
How to Make Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice Bowl:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl recipe takes about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes doing the prep work, like chopping vegetables, and then about 15 minutes cooking everything until it’s delicious and ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by rinsing the uncooked white rice under cold water. Keep rinsing until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once it’s boiling, turn the heat down to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. After the water is absorbed, remove it from heat but keep it covered for another 5 minutes to fluff up nicely.
2. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet or pan, warm the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it smells yummy. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spatula for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is nicely browned.
3. Add Vegetables and Seasoning:
Now stir in the diced red bell pepper, soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper into the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper is nice and tender.
4. Serve it Up:
Take your cooked rice and fluff it with a fork. Scoop the rice into serving bowls and top it with the beef and pepper mixture. Finally, garnish your dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before enjoying your delicious Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but note that brown rice takes longer to cook. Use 1 cup of brown rice and 2.5 cups of water, and simmer for about 40-45 minutes instead of 15 minutes. Make sure to let it sit covered for 10 minutes after cooking for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or a meat substitute, try using ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
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 it until heated through or warm it on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like zucchini, carrots, or broccoli. Just chop them into small pieces and add them along with the bell pepper in step 4, adjusting the cooking time to ensure they become tender.
