Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl

Why You’ll Love Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe

This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is the ideal weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make, full of protein, and incorporates plenty of fresh veggies. The combination of tender beef and crisp peppers in a savory sauce is irresistible, while the rice provides a comforting base. It’s a one-bowl meal that packs both nutrition and flavor, making it a great go-to for busy evenings or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef (such as sirloin or flank steak), thinly sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, sliced

• 1 onion, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)

• Green onions, for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.

2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

4. Add the cooked beef back into the skillet with the vegetables, and pour in the prepared sauce. Toss everything together until evenly coated, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

5. Serve the beef and pepper mixture over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for tofu or tempeh to make this a vegetarian dish. Make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking.

• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or fresh chopped chili peppers to the sauce for a spicy kick.

• Brown Rice or Quinoa: Serve the beef and peppers over brown rice, quinoa, or any other whole grain of your choice for added nutrition.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli, for more texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the rice bowl in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or heat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If it’s too dry, add a splash of water or soy sauce to help rehydrate the rice and sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as ribeye, tenderloin, or even ground beef. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the type of beef you choose.

2. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and peppers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat and serve over fresh rice.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the beef and pepper mixture for up to 2 months. However, the rice is best fresh or stored in the refrigerator.

5. What vegetables can I add to the bowl?

You can add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, snow peas, or broccoli to the bowl. These veggies will complement the dish well and provide additional texture.

6. Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use white rice, brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

7. Can I substitute the oyster sauce?

Yes, if you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute with hoisin sauce, or use a combination of soy sauce and a little bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness and depth of flavor.

8. How do I make the beef more tender?

For more tender beef, you can marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of sugar for 30 minutes before cooking. This will help the beef stay juicy and tender during cooking.

9. Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! To make it spicy, add some chili flakes or fresh chopped chili peppers to the sauce or stir-fry along with the vegetables.

10. Can I use a wok for this recipe?

Yes, a wok is perfect for stir-frying the beef and vegetables. It allows for quick, high-heat cooking and will help the ingredients cook evenly.

Conclusion

This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a quick, flavorful, and customizable dish that works perfectly for busy nights or meal prepping. With tender beef, vibrant peppers, and a savory sauce served over rice, it’s a complete meal that everyone will love. Enjoy this easy recipe as is or try some of the variations for a unique twist!