Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl with tender beef and colorful vegetables

Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl

by

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe

The Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With tender beef slices, crisp bell peppers, and a savory sauce served over fluffy rice, this dish strikes a perfect balance between hearty and healthy. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s a one-bowl wonder, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients for the Perfect Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl

For the Bowl:

  • 1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 2 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), thinly sliced
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

Optional Toppings:

  • Sliced green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • A drizzle of sriracha or chili oil

How to Make a Delicious Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness. If needed, partially freeze the beef for easier slicing.
    • Mix the sauce ingredients (soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, beef broth, and sugar) in a small bowl until smooth.
  2. Cook the Beef:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
    • Add the beef slices and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
    • Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic, and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Combine and Simmer:
    • Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables.
    • Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir well.
    • Allow the sauce to thicken and coat the beef and vegetables, cooking for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Assemble the Bowl:
    • Divide the cooked rice into bowls.
    • Top with the beef and pepper mixture.
    • Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or your favorite toppings.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve the bowls warm and enjoy your flavorful beef and pepper rice bowl!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  1. Protein Options:
    • Substitute chicken, shrimp, or tofu for the beef to suit your dietary preferences.
    • Use ground beef for a quicker alternative.
  2. Vegetables:
    • Add mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli for more variety.
    • Swap bell peppers for other crunchy veggies like snap peas or carrots.
  3. Grains:
    • Replace rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a different base.
  4. Flavor Boosts:
    • Add ginger to the sauce for an extra zing.
    • Include a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy touch.

Storage and Reheating

Storage:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

  • Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying.

Freezing:

  • Freeze the beef and pepper mixture (without rice) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen bell peppers work well for this recipe. No need to thaw them—just toss them into the skillet while cooking.

2. What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Sirloin or flank steak are ideal due to their tenderness and flavor. However, you can also use skirt steak or ribeye.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

4. Is this recipe spicy?
No, it’s not spicy by default. If you prefer heat, add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.

5. How do I keep the beef tender?
Slice the beef thinly against the grain and avoid overcooking. Marinating the beef in a bit of soy sauce and cornstarch can also help retain moisture.

Conclusion

The Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Its combination of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a flavorful sauce makes it a surefire hit for any meal. With plenty of room for customization and quick preparation, this dish is perfect for busy days or when you crave something comforting yet nutritious. Try it out, and let this delightful bowl bring a burst of flavor to your table!

People also ask

Is beef and rice a good combo?

Yes, beef and rice make an excellent combination! Together, they provide a balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and nutrients. The flavors complement each other well, especially when cooked with seasonings, vegetables, or sauces. It’s also a versatile combo that can fit into a variety of cuisines, from Asian stir-fries to Latin American bowls.

Where did beef pepper rice originate?

Beef pepper rice originated in Japan, popularized by the restaurant chain Pepper Lunch. The dish is a sizzling hotplate meal where thin slices of beef are cooked with rice, sweet corn, and black pepper, often accompanied by a soy-based sauce. The interactive cooking experience of stirring the ingredients on a hotplate has made it widely loved across Asia and beyond.

What to eat with black pepper beef?

Black pepper beef pairs wonderfully with:

  1. Steamed white or jasmine rice – The mild flavor balances the spicy kick of the black pepper.
  2. Fried rice – Adds extra flavor to the meal.
  3. Noodles – Stir-fried or boiled noodles work well.
  4. Steamed vegetables – Broccoli, bok choy, or carrots provide a fresh contrast.
  5. Pickled vegetables or kimchi – Adds a tangy element to the dish.
  6. Egg rolls or spring rolls – Complements the Asian-inspired flavors.

How to garnish a rice bowl?

You can garnish a rice bowl creatively to enhance both flavor and presentation:

  1. Fresh herbs – Sprinkle chopped scallions, cilantro, or parsley.
  2. Sesame seeds – White or black sesame seeds add texture and visual appeal.
  3. Sliced vegetables – Thinly sliced radishes, cucumbers, or carrots for color and crunch.
  4. Nori strips – Shredded seaweed adds an umami touch.
  5. Egg – A poached egg, fried egg, or soft-boiled egg for richness.
  6. Microgreens – A fresh, modern touch.
  7. Sauces – Drizzle soy sauce, sriracha, or a creamy dressing for extra flavor.