If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to make, the Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is the answer! This dish is packed with tender strips of beef, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly cooked rice, all topped off with a savory sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or serving it for lunch, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for a filling and tasty meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. For extra flavor, you can substitute water with chicken broth or beef broth to cook the rice. This will add depth to the dish. Once cooked, set the rice aside and keep it warm.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef and Vegetables
While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef to the pan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the beef for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the sliced bell peppers and onion. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine the Beef and Vegetables
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and teriyaki sauce to the pan. Stir everything together to combine and coat the beef and peppers with the sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Serve the Rice Bowl
To assemble the rice bowls, start with a bed of rice in each bowl. Spoon the beef and pepper mixture on top of the rice. Drizzle with sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor (optional). Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Rice Options: You can use white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version of this dish. If you’re short on time, you can use instant rice as a shortcut.
- Beef Variations: For a tender texture, flank steak or sirloin steak are excellent choices. You can also use ground beef or steak strips if you prefer. Just make sure to cook the beef properly to ensure it remains juicy and flavorful.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms to the stir-fry. The more veggies, the more flavor and nutrients!
- Sauce Adjustments: If you like a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce. You can also adjust the amount of soy sauce or hoisin sauce to make it sweeter or saltier, depending on your taste.
Keto Version
To make this recipe keto-friendly, simply swap out the rice for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. These alternatives will keep the dish low in carbs while still providing a satisfying base for the beef and vegetables. Be sure to check the labels for your sauces to ensure they’re low in sugar—many teriyaki and hoisin sauces contain added sugars.
Low-Carb Version
The low-carb version of this Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl would also benefit from the cauliflower rice or other vegetable alternatives. Reducing the amount of soy sauce or switching to a sugar-free version can further lower the carb count. Avoid adding extra sugars or high-carb sauces, and instead focus on fresh herbs and spices for flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs
1. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen bell peppers and onions if fresh ones are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw them and remove any excess water before cooking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and peppers in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the mixture in a skillet and serve with freshly cooked rice.
3. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken is a great substitute for beef in this dish. Simply replace the beef with chicken breast or chicken thighs, sliced into strips. Follow the same cooking method, and you’ll have a delicious alternative.
4. Can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like spice, feel free to add chili flakes, sriracha, or chili paste to the sauce. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce if necessary.
