Beef Pepper Rice Bowl: A Flavorful and Satisfying One-Bowl Meal
If you’re searching for a quick, wholesome, and downright delicious dinner idea, this Beef Pepper Rice Bowl recipe is exactly what you need. Not only is it packed with tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and fragrant jasmine rice, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Best of all, this dish comes together in just one skillet, so it saves both time and effort when it comes to cleanup.
What sets this recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors. For starters, juicy beef cubes are seared to lock in flavor, creating a savory depth that enhances every bite. Meanwhile, crisp-tender bell peppers and onions add natural sweetness and a delightful crunch. To tie it all together, the rich, umami-packed sauce—featuring soy sauce, sesame oil, a touch of honey, and a hint of rice vinegar—creates a harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors.
Moreover, this dish offers fantastic versatility. For example, you can easily adjust the spice level by adding or omitting red chili flakes, making it suitable for everyone at the table. Additionally, if you love meal prepping, you’ll be thrilled to know that this recipe reheats beautifully. As a result, it’s a fantastic option for packed lunches or quick reheated dinners during busy weekdays.
Above all, this recipe is designed to please a crowd. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or hosting friends for a casual gathering, this Beef Pepper Rice Bowl delivers both flavor and satisfaction. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and enjoy a dish that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with vibrant, delicious flavors.
Let’s dive into the recipe now and bring this hearty, colorful bowl to your table today!
Recipe Yield: 6 servings
INGREDIENTS
2 cups jasmine rice, cooked
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 lb beef sirloin, cubed into ½-inch pieces
2 bell peppers (red and green, or red and yellow, diced)
1 medium onion, finely diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
5 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, divided
2 tsp honey
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp rice vinegar (optional, for balance)
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
½ tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Cook the rice: Prepare the jasmine rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside, keeping it warm.
2. Sear the beef: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef in a single layer, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still tender. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 5 tbsp soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar (if using), black pepper, and red chili flakes. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in 1 tbsp water and mix it into the sauce.
4. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Stir in the onion and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Toss in the diced bell peppers and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp. Finally, mix in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Combine and cook: Return the seared beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetable mixture, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 2–3 min over medium heat, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat all ingredients.
6. Assemble the bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly among serving bowls. Top with the beef and pepper mixture, ensuring an even distribution of the sauce.
7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over each bowl. Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Choose the Right Beef for Tender Results: Opt for tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin, as they cook quickly and stay juicy. Avoid overcooking; sear the beef briefly for a flavorful crust while maintaining tenderness.
- Prep Ingredients in Advance for Seamless Cooking: Dice the bell peppers, onion, and garlic before starting to cook. Measure out your sauces and spices so everything is ready to add quickly, helping to achieve perfect timing and flavor balance.
- Customize the Heat and Sauce Thickness: For a mild dish, skip the chili flakes. To create a thicker, glossy sauce that clings beautifully to the beef and peppers, mix ½ tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and add it to the sauce mixture before cooking.