Beef Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers and Rice – A Colorful and Flavorful Weeknight Meal

Introduction

Need a quick and tasty dinner idea that combines savory beef, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly cooked rice? Look no further! This Beef Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers and Rice is an easy-to-make dish that’s packed with bold flavors and vibrant colors. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that comes together in no time and leaves everyone at the table satisfied. With a balanced mix of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, this stir-fry will soon be a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

For the Beef Stir-Fry:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Rice:

• 1 cup jasmine rice (or your preferred variety)
• 2 cups water or broth (for extra flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Start by cooking the rice. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water (or broth) to a boil.
2. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is cooked through and all the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork once it’s done cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Stir the mixture until smooth and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Once the beef is cooked, remove any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

1. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
2. Toss in the diced bell peppers and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, until the peppers become tender yet still retain some crunch.

Step 5: Stir in the Sauce

1. Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the beef and peppers. Stir everything together to coat the ingredients with the sauce.
2. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a little bit of water and add it to the skillet, stirring until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Spoon the beef and vegetable stir-fry over the cooked rice.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, sesame seeds, or additional chili flakes for a bit of spice, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips

• To make the dish spicier, feel free to add a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
• You can substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
• For extra texture, try adding water chestnuts, snap peas, or shredded carrots to the stir-fry.

Conclusion

This Beef Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers and Rice is a quick, colorful, and delicious dish that combines hearty beef, crisp vegetables, and fluffy rice in a savory-sweet sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to make something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. Full of flavor and easy to customize, it’s a great addition to your weekly meal rotation.

Call to Action
Did you enjoy making and eating this Beef Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers and Rice? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And don’t forget to check out our blog for more easy and flavorful recipes that are perfect for any occasion!