This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a colorful dish that’s both tasty and filling! It features tender beef sautéed with vibrant peppers, all served over fluffy rice. Yum!
It’s like a party in a bowl! I love how quick it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is great for this dish. You can substitute it with basmati rice or even brown rice if you want something healthier, but cook times may vary, so keep an eye on it!
Ground Beef: While ground beef is hearty and rich, ground turkey or chicken works well too for a leaner option. You can also use plant-based crumbles if you’re looking for a vegetarian substitute!
Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add color and crunch! If you can’t find them, try using any colorful peppers like yellow or orange. You could also skip them and use snap peas or zucchini if you prefer.
Garlic: Garlic adds fantastic flavor; fresh minced is best. If you’re out of fresh, use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute. It’s not as strong but will still add some taste!
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, go for tamari or coconut aminos. If you want a less salty option, low-sodium soy sauce is a good choice.
How Do I Cook Perfect Jasmine Rice?
Cooking jasmine rice might seem tricky, but it’s really straightforward! Rinsing the rice first is key to removing excess starch, which helps keep the rice fluffy instead of gummy. Remember the water ratio is usually 2:1 for jasmine rice.
- Rinse rice until the water is clear. This can take a few minutes, but it’s worth it!
- Combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then turn the heat down to low, cover it, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes. Don’t lift the lid – steam is your friend!
- Once it’s done, fluff it gently with a fork. This will keep it nice and light.
How to Make Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
- Water (for cooking rice)
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp black sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything. This hearty meal is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Jasmine Rice:
Start by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the water is fully absorbed. When done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds. It should smell fragrant but be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the 1 lb of ground beef into the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat into smaller pieces. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which should take around 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it from the skillet.
4. Add the Peppers:
Now, stir in the diced red bell pepper and, if you’re using it, the green bell pepper into the skillet with the beef. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers are tender and slightly softened.
5. Season the Mixture:
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring everything well to combine. Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes so the flavors can mix together nicely.
6. Serve It Up!
To serve, take your cooked jasmine rice and divide it into bowls. Top each bowl with the savory beef and pepper mixture. Add a sprinkle of chopped green onions and black sesame seeds for garnish. It’s time to enjoy your delicious Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl hot!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Jasmine Rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for jasmine rice, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. Use a ratio of 1 cup of brown rice to 2.5 cups of water, and simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until tender. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, and make sure to fluff it before serving!
Can I Make This Dish with Ground Turkey or Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef. Follow the same cooking instructions, but keep an eye on the cooking time, as these meats may cook slightly faster. Just make sure they are fully cooked through before adding the bell peppers.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the beef and pepper mixture and rice in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of water to the rice to help steam it a bit during reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Bowl?
Definitely! Feel free to add more veggies like broccoli, mushrooms, or snap peas. Just chop them into small pieces and add them along with the bell peppers, cooking until they are tender. This is a great way to sneak extra nutrients into your meal!
