If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and the satisfying comfort of a perfectly cooked meal, this Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe is just what you need. Combining tender slices of marinated beef with crisp, sweet bell peppers and a fluffy bed of rice, every bite is a harmony of savory, slightly sweet, and smoky notes that will make you want to come back for seconds. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to share with friends or family, making it a versatile favorite to keep in your cooking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe shines because of its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the savory marinated beef to the crunchy peppers and aromatic seasonings, these essentials work together to bring the dish to life.
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced: Use a tender cut for juicy, flavorful beef that cooks quickly.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a savory, salty depth to the marinade and dish.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Brings a subtle richness and umami boost.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Infuses a toasty, nutty aroma that elevates the beef.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the marinade and keeps the beef tender.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for stir-frying and delivering a crisp sear.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Brightens the bowl with sweetness and crunch.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Adds vibrant color and a mild, fruity flavor.
- 1 small onion, sliced: Balances the dish with a hint of natural sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fresh, fragrant punch.
- 3 cups cooked white or brown rice: The comforting base that soaks up all the delicious juices.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Season to enhance all the flavors naturally.
- Green onions and sesame seeds (optional): Perfect garnishes that add color, texture, and a mild crunch.
How to Make Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by tossing your thinly sliced beef in a simple yet flavorful marinade made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Letting it sit for 10 minutes allows the beef to absorb these seasonings, resulting in a tender and juicy texture once cooked. This step is essential because it kickstarts the layers of flavor in your Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe.
Step 2: Heat the Pan and Cook the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. When the pan is hot, add the marinated beef. Cook it quickly for about 2 to 3 minutes until it’s nicely browned but still tender inside. Removing the beef at this stage prevents overcooking and keeps it juicy, setting the stage for the perfect rice bowl.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a little extra oil if needed and toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry them until they become just tender, which generally takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This step highlights the natural sweetness and crispness of the peppers, providing a lovely contrast to the beef’s richness.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Return the Beef
Now toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it releases its fragrant aroma—it makes the whole dish pop with flavor. Then, add the beef back to the pan and stir everything together, ensuring the sauce evenly coats all the ingredients and heats through. This is where all the flavors unite beautifully in your Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe.
Step 5: Serve Over Rice
Finally, spoon this delicious beef and pepper mixture over steaming hot cooked rice. The rice acts like a cushion soaking up all that delightful sauce, balancing the savory and sweet elements in every mouthful of your bowl.
How to Serve Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
While this rice bowl is fantastic on its own, garnishing with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a fresh, vibrant touch. These garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also add subtle layers of texture and flavor that make each bite even more exciting.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing your Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe with simple sides like steamed or stir-fried greens, such as bok choy or spinach. A crisp cucumber salad or pickled vegetables offer a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, juicy beef and peppers, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the beef and pepper over different rice varieties like jasmine or brown rice for additional aroma and nutrition. You might also jazz up the bowl by topping it with a soft-boiled egg or a drizzle of spicy mayo to add a creamy, indulgent element everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient and tasty option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the beef and pepper mixture separately from the rice. Place the cooled beef and peppers in a freezer-safe container or bag, and store the rice in a separate portion. This method preserves the texture and flavor, allowing you to enjoy this recipe anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the beef and pepper mixture in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Microwave the rice separately until steaming hot. Combining them just before serving ensures the best taste and texture, reviving the deliciousness of your Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin work best for their tenderness and quick cooking, you can substitute with skirt steak or ribeye if preferred. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can easily swap out the beef for firm tofu or tempeh, and use vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce alone. The method stays the same, and you’ll still get a flavorful and satisfying bowl.
What type of rice should I use?
White jasmine rice is a classic choice for this dish, but brown rice adds a lovely nutty flavor and extra fiber. You can also experiment with cauliflower rice if you want a lower-carb option.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! Marinate the beef beforehand and chop the veggies ahead of time. When you’re ready to cook, the stir-fry process takes just minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe isn’t spicy by default, but you can easily add red pepper flakes, chili sauce, or fresh chilies during cooking for an extra kick if you like heat.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe is such a wonderful dish to keep in your culinary repertoire. It’s quick, packed with flavor, and so comforting—perfect for when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try soon; I promise it will become a favorite go-to meal that you’ll happily make again and again.
Print
Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a quick and flavorful stir-fry dish featuring tender marinated flank steak cooked with vibrant bell peppers and onions. Served over steamed rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner packed with savory Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Beef Marinade
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Vegetables & Cooking
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
To Serve
- 3 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced flank steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix well to ensure all beef slices are coated evenly. Let the beef marinate for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors and tenderize.
- Preheat the Skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot.
- Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned on the outside but still tender inside. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Add sliced onions and bell peppers and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they are just tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt.
- Combine Beef and Vegetables: Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together carefully to coat with remaining sauces and heat through evenly for a minute more.
- Serve: Spoon the beef and pepper mixture over hot cooked rice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a healthier option, replace white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice.
- Thinly slicing the beef against the grain ensures tenderness.
- Oyster sauce can be substituted with hoisin sauce or soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
