This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a tasty mix of seasoned beef, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice. It’s quick to make, perfect for a busy day!
Who doesn’t love a one-bowl meal? It’s like a cozy hug in your dinner bowl. I enjoy adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is perfect for a rice bowl. However, you can use long-grain rice or even brown rice. Just remember that brown rice will need longer cooking time.
Ground Beef: I find that lean ground beef works best to reduce excess fat. You could also use turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter protein option or even a plant-based ground beef for a vegetarian dish.
Red Bell Pepper: While the red bell pepper adds sweetness and color, feel free to substitute with yellow or orange peppers. You can even mix in zucchini or broccoli for a different flavor.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use olive oil or a light vegetable oil, but the taste won’t be the same. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can add a similar flavor.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness to balance the soy sauce. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, or even skip it if you prefer a less sweet version.
How Can I Cook Jasmine Rice Perfectly?
Cooking jasmine rice might seem tricky, but here’s a simple way to get it right every time. Rinse the rice well to remove excess starch, which helps make it fluffy. The water-to-rice ratio is key. Always use a 2:1 ratio of water to rice.
- Start by rinsing the rice until the water runs clear to remove extra starch.
- Combine the rinsed rice and water in a pot. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat.
- Cover and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until the water is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking!
- Once done, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
How to Make a Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl will take you about 30 minutes to make. You’ll spend around 15-18 minutes cooking the rice and about 10-15 minutes preparing the beef and vegetables. It’s a quick and easy meal for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Rice:
Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch for fluffier rice. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and cover it. Let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Preparing the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing them for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. This step adds wonderful flavor to your dish!
3. Cooking the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spatula. Keep it cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is nicely browned and cooked through. If there’s excess fat in the skillet, drain it off to keep the dish from being greasy.
4. Adding Vegetables and Seasoning:
Now, stir in the diced red bell pepper, soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for an additional 3-5 minutes until the bell peppers are tender and well blended with the beef. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
5. Serving the Dish:
To serve, scoop the beef mixture over a bed of the cooked jasmine rice in bowls. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Jasmine Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Generally, you’ll need to simmer it for about 40-45 minutes with 2 1/2 cups of water. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and check for doneness before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a substitute, ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner option. For a vegetarian alternative, try using crumbled tofu or tempeh, or even black beans or lentils for a hearty, plant-based dish. Just be sure to adjust your seasoning to keep it flavorful!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the beef and pepper mixture for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and serve it over freshly made rice for the best texture.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add in other veggies like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. Just chop them to similar sizes as the bell pepper and add them to the skillet along with the beef. Cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them to ensure they are tender but still have a nice crunch!
