Craving a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal? This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a perfect choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Packed with tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and a savory sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in no time. Here’s how to make it step by step.
Ingredients:
For the Beef and Peppers:
1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced into strips
1 medium onion, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Marinade:
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce
2 tbsp water
1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For Serving:
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and black pepper. Add the sliced beef and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes to enhance flavor.
Pro Tip: Marinate the beef overnight for even deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, honey, and cornstarch (if using). Set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sear the Beef
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
5. Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the beef. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well to coat. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is evenly coated.
6. Assemble the Rice Bowls
Scoop a generous portion of cooked rice into each bowl. Top with the beef and pepper mixture. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is perfect as a standalone meal, but you can also pair it with a side of steamed broccoli, a fresh salad, or miso soup for a complete dining experience.
Tips for Success
Choose the Right Beef: Use tender cuts like sirloin, flank, or ribeye for the best results. Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms, snap peas, or zucchini for more variety and nutrition.
Control the Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle some sriracha over the bowl.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl combines bold flavors, tender textures, and vibrant colors to create a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and wholesome. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors in every bite!