eef and Pepper Rice Bowls

Short Description

Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls are a quick and flavorful meal packed with tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and a savory sauce served over rice. This dish is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and fast to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes
• Packed with protein and fresh vegetables
• Versatile—can be customized with different veggies or protein choices
• Great for meal prep and reheats well
• A delicious balance of savory, slightly sweet, and umami flavors

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (or thinly sliced beef strips)
• Cooked rice (white or brown)
• Bell peppers (any color, sliced)
• Onion (sliced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Brown sugar or honey
• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• Green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.
2. Add the ground beef or beef strips, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in the sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar (or honey), sesame oil, and cornstarch (if using).
6. Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir well to coat the beef and vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add sriracha or extra red pepper flakes for heat.
• Different Proteins: Swap beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli for more nutrients.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Teriyaki Twist: Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a sweeter profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, chicken, turkey, or even tofu can be used instead of beef.

What type of rice works best for this dish?

White rice, brown rice, or even quinoa work well.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and make sure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

A splash of rice vinegar or a drizzle of hoisin sauce can enhance the flavor.

Do I need to marinate the beef?

For extra tenderness, you can marinate the beef strips in soy sauce and cornstarch for 15 minutes before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and pepper mixture ahead and store it separately from the rice to keep everything fresh.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef or replace some of the beef with extra vegetables.

Can I make it without oyster sauce?

Yes, you can substitute hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce.

What vegetables pair well with this dish?

Broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms complement this dish well.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, sauté the beef and vegetables first, then add the sauce and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a quick release.

Conclusion

Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls are a quick and satisfying meal that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a meal prep favorite, this dish is sure to please. Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade meal in under 30 minutes!

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