This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a simple dish that combines tasty beef, colorful peppers, and fluffy rice. It’s quick to whip up for a delicious meal!
The best part? It’s a one-bowl wonder! I love dressing it up with my favorite sauce and adding a sprinkle of green onions. Makes me feel like a chef at home! 🍚🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Rice: This recipe calls for white rice, which is soft and fluffy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, brown rice or quinoa can work too, but cooking times may vary. Just stick to the recommended water ratio and time for each!
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds flavor and protein. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute. You could even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version!
Red Bell Pepper: This ingredient brings sweetness and color. If you don’t have red bell pepper, yellow or orange peppers work just as well. For a spicier kick, consider jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Soy Sauce: Adds essential umami flavor. Low-sodium soy sauce is a good substitute if you’re watching your sodium intake. Coconut aminos can also be used for a gluten-free option with a slightly sweeter taste.
Sesame Oil: It’s known for its rich, nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use olive oil or vegetable oil, but you’ll miss that unique taste. Just add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor!
How Do I Cook Rice Perfectly?
Cooking rice seems simple, but it can be tricky! Rinsing your rice removes excess starch and prevents it from being gummy. Here’s a quick step-by-step:
- Rinse 1 cup of white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. The water-to-rice ratio is key, so keep it consistent.
- Add the rice and lower the heat to a simmer. Cover it up and let it cook for 18-20 minutes.
- After it absorbs the water, let it sit, covered, for an extra 5 minutes. This allows it to fluff up.
This method helps achieve soft, non-sticky rice, which is the perfect base for your beef and pepper mixture!
How to Make Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups water
For the Beef and Veggies:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced or grated
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl takes about 35 minutes total — about 20 minutes for cooking the rice and 15 minutes for preparing the beef and veggies. It’s a quick and hearty meal that’s sure to delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of white rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. After cooking, remove it from the heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. This will make your rice fluffy!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
While the rice is cooking, heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces while it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the dish lighter.
4. Add Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced red bell pepper and chopped green onions into the skillet with the beef. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes, until the bell peppers are tender and colorful!
5. Season the Mixture:
Pour in the soy sauce and mix everything well to combine. Taste your mixture and season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. Once it’s tasty, remove the skillet from the heat.
6. Serve the Bowl:
To serve, scoop some of the fluffy rice into bowls. Top it generously with the beef and pepper mixture, making sure to get all those delicious flavors!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish by sprinkling some additional chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top for a nice finish. Dig in and enjoy your tasty Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl!
## FAQ for Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice typically requires more cooking time. You’ll need about 2 1/2 cups of water and should simmer for approximately 40-45 minutes instead of 18-20 minutes. Make sure to check the packaging for specific cooking instructions as well!
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’d like a different protein, ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter substitute. For a vegetarian option, try using cooked lentils or a mix of your favorite veggies, adding some cooked mushrooms for a meaty texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your bowl with other veggies like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. Just make sure to add them to the skillet so they cook down and blend with the flavors for about the same time as the bell peppers.
