Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

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by Amelia

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Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce over fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, offering a burst of flavors that everyone will love. With its quick preparation time and the ability to customize ingredients, this stir-fry stands out as a versatile meal option.

Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and cook time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
  • Flavorful Combination: The harmony of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates an irresistible flavor profile.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap beef for chicken or tofu and add your favorite vegetables for variety.
  • Healthy Option: Packed with fresh veggies, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Wok or large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Wok or large skillet: A wok heats evenly and allows for high-temperature cooking, perfect for stir-frying.
  • Mixing bowl: Essential for marinating the beef and mixing sauces efficiently.
  • Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise slicing of ingredients for uniform cooking.
  • Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables and meat without mess.
Beef

Ingredients

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 15 min
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: ~540 kcal

For the Beef:

  • 500g flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil

Veggies:

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp brown sugar

To Serve:

  • 3 cups cooked white rice

How to Make Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Marinate beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil in a mixing bowl. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Heat your wok on high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until just browned. Remove it from the wok and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry Vegetables

In the same wok, add garlic, ginger, onion, and both bell peppers. Cook until they are slightly tender but still crisp—about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir until everything is well coated and glossy.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Serve your Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry hot over steamed white rice for a satisfying meal. Enjoy!

Notes & Variations:

Consider adding broccoli or snow peas for extra veggies. You can also swap the beef for chicken or tofu based on your preference. If you like some heat, feel free to include chili flakes or fresh sliced chili!

How to Serve Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

Serving Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice can elevate your meal experience. This vibrant dish not only looks good but also offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

  • Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the stir-fry for a refreshing flavor boost.
  • Green Onions: Garnish with sliced green onions for added crunch and a mild onion taste.

Incorporate Crunchy Toppings

  • Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and delightful crunch.
  • Crushed Peanuts: For extra texture, sprinkle crushed peanuts on top before serving.

Serve with Extra Sauces

  • Chili Sauce: Provide chili sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
  • Soy Sauce: A small dish of soy sauce can enhance the umami taste.

Pair with Salad

  • Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad complements the richness of the stir-fry perfectly.
  • Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances the flavors nicely.

How to Perfect Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

Perfecting your Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips for an outstanding dish every time.

  • Marinate Well: Letting the beef marinate longer enhances its flavor and tenderness.
  • High Heat Cooking: Use high heat to achieve that perfect sear on the beef, locking in juices.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches prevents steaming, allowing for better browning.
  • Add Veggies Last: To keep them crisp, add vegetables after the beef is nearly cooked through.
  • Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in cornstarch dissolved in water towards the end.
  • Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure balanced flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

  1. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and crunch.
  2. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice can complement the stir-fry while adding variety to your meal.
  3. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls are a delightful starter that pairs well with Asian flavors.
  4. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame offers a healthy protein boost as a side dish.
  5. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed garlic green beans provide a tasty and vibrant addition to your plate.
  6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be soothing and adds an umami-rich option alongside your stir-fry.
  7. Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad balances out the savory notes of the stir-fry beautifully.
  8. Asian Noodle Salad: Tossed noodles with veggies add another layer of flavor and texture to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that could compromise your dish.

  • Bold Marinade Mistake: Skipping the marination process can lead to tough beef. Always marinate the beef for at least 10 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
  • Bold Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much beef or veggies at once can result in steaming instead of stir-frying. Cook in batches if necessary for a better sear.
  • Bold Ignoring Vegetable Texture: Cooking vegetables until they’re mushy ruins their crispness. Aim for a quick cook to maintain a slight crunch.
  • Bold Sauce Miscalculation: Using too much sauce can overpower the dish. Measure carefully and adjust according to taste preferences.
  • Bold Wrong Rice Type: Using instant rice may alter the texture of the meal. Opt for long-grain white rice or jasmine rice for best results.
Beef

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

  • Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Portion into single servings for easy defrosting.

Reheating Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot throughout.
  • Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice, you’re not alone. Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use chicken instead of beef in this recipe?

Yes, chicken works well as a substitute! Simply adjust cooking time as needed for tender chicken.

How do I make Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all sauces are labeled gluten-free to enjoy this dish without concerns.

What can I serve with Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice?

This stir-fry pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for added nutrition.

Can I add more vegetables to my Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to include broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by swapping proteins or adding your favorite veggies. Try this recipe today and enjoy a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect any night of the week!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together tender beef and colorful bell peppers in a savory sauce, served over perfectly cooked rice. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those looking for quick yet satisfying meals.


Ingredients

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  • 500g flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • 3 cups cooked white rice

Instructions

  1. Marinate the beef: In a mixing bowl, combine beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  2. Cook the beef: Heat a wok or large skillet on high heat, add the marinated beef, and stir-fry until browned. Remove from the pan.
  3. Stir-fry vegetables: In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, onion, and bell peppers. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. Combine: Return beef to the pan and pour in soy sauce mixture (soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar). Stir until well combined.
  5. Serve: Plate over warm cooked rice and enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stir-Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 890mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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