Sweet and Savory Beef Stir-Fry with Rice – A Quick, Flavorful Meal
Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal that combines rich flavor and colorful vegetables, this Sweet and Savory Beef Stir-Fry with Rice is a perfect choice. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and packed with nutrients. The juicy, tender beef combined with colorful bell peppers and a savory sauce over rice makes for a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress guests with a simple yet flavorful dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
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 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or fresh ginger, minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For the Rice:
- 1 cup white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
- 2 cups water or broth (for extra flavor)

Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
- Start by cooking your rice. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water (or broth) to a boil.
- Add the rice, reduce the heat, and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
Step 2: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Stir to combine and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef and Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove any excess fat from the skillet and add the chopped onion and garlic. Stir for another minute until the onion becomes translucent.
Step 4: Add the Bell Peppers
- Add the diced bell peppers to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Stir in the stir-fry sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can dissolve the cornstarch in a little water and add it to the pan, stirring to incorporate.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the beef stir-fry over a bed of freshly cooked rice.
- Garnish with additional sesame seeds or chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- If you prefer more vegetables, you can add other options such as carrots, broccoli, or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
- To make the dish spicier, you can add a touch of chili paste or red pepper flakes to the stir-fry sauce.
- For a lower-carb alternative, serve this dish over cauliflower rice or another grain like quinoa.
Conclusion
This Sweet and Savory Beef Stir-Fry with Rice is the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. The tender beef and vibrant bell peppers make for a delicious and visually stunning dish, while the rice serves as a hearty base. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s full of flavor, making it perfect for busy nights or when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Call to Action
Have you tried this Sweet and Savory Beef Stir-Fry with Rice recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below! For more quick and flavorful meal ideas, check out our blog for additional recipes that are perfect for busy nights.