What Do You Serve with Pepper Steak?

Because pepper steak —the core of this dish—is boldly flavored, simple sides provide balance. For example, plain steamed vegetables, quick pickled cucumbers, or a light soup work perfectly. Additionally, jasmine rice complements both sauce and beef, soaking up flavor beautifully.

What is Usually in a Rice Bowl?

Although rice bowls vary by culture, most follow the same structure. Generally, they contain: Base: Steamed white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. Protein: Beef, chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Vegetables: Peppers, onions, carrots, or leafy greens. Sauce: Soy sauce-based, spicy garlic, or sweet teriyaki.

What to Eat with Black Pepper Beef?

Since black pepper beef offers bold, savory flavor, pairing it with lighter sides creates contrast. Therefore, crunchy cabbage slaw, simple miso soup, or lightly seasoned greens work best.

What Do You Need for Pepper Steak and Rice?

Although this dish uses basic ingredients, quality matters. Therefore, ensure you have: Thinly sliced beef (flank, sirloin, or skirt) Fresh bell peppers Garlic, soy sauce, black pepper Cornstarch (for velveting and sauce thickening) Steamed rice (jasmine or short-grain)

Beef and Pepper Bowl - Best Rice Bowl Recipe with Savory Sauce

Description

This Beef and Pepper Bowl is a quick, flavorful meal that brings together tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a savory stir-fry sauce served over fluffy rice. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and is packed with protein, vibrant veggies, and bold flavor. Customize with your favorite vegetables or spice it up with chili flakes for a kick!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef & Peppers:

1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Stir-Fry Sauce:

¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon brown sugar
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Serving:

2 cups cooked white rice or brown rice
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional garnish)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional garnish)

Instructions

Prepare Beef: In a bowl, toss sliced beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Set aside for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.
Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Cook Beef: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove beef from pan and set aside.
Sauté Veggies: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir-fry bell peppers, onion, and garlic for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
Combine: Return beef to the pan and pour in the sauce. Toss everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through and sauce thickens slightly.
Serve: Spoon beef and pepper mixture over bowls of cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

Swap beef for chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.
Add extra vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
For a low-carb version, serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.
Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days—great for meal prep!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: ~450 kcal
Fat: ~14g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 30g