1 cup steamed white rice Recipe
If you have ever wished for a dish that combines the boldness of spicy ground beef with the vibrant freshness of garlic-sautéed vegetables, all perfectly resting on 1 cup steamed white rice, this recipe is your new favorite. It’s fast, satisfying, and delivers all the comfort of takeout with the pride of homemade cooking. Each spoonful offers a harmony of sweet heat, savory depth, and bright veggie crunch, making it a bowl that warms both heart and soul.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this spicy ground beef stir-fry bowl lies in its simple, honest ingredients, each playing a key role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the rich, juicy beef to the garlicky, crisp vegetables, every component is essential to the final dish.
- 1/2 pound ground beef: Provides rich flavor and satisfying protein for the stir-fry base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic punch to both the beef and vegetable components.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings salty umami notes that deepen the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes: Infuses a gentle spicy kick adjustable to your preference.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Imparts a toasty, nutty aroma that elevates the beef.
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar: Balances spicy and savory with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Adds crunch and vibrant green color with a subtle earthiness.
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced: Offers a sweet, crisp contrast and visual brightness.
- 1/2 zucchini, sliced: Brings softness and mild flavor to the vegetable medley.
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced: Contributes a meaty texture and deep umami taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing veggies and enhancing natural flavors.
- 1 cup steamed white rice: The sturdy, comforting foundation that completes the bowl.
How to Make 1 cup steamed white rice
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Begin by placing 1 cup steamed white rice in a fine mesh sieve and rinsing it under cold water to remove excess starch. This simple step ensures your rice turns out fluffy and non-sticky, setting the stage for a perfectly textured base that will soak up all those flavorful stir-fry juices.
Step 2: Measure and Boil
For every 1 cup steamed white rice, use 1 1/4 cups of water. Combine them in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Watching carefully here is key to prevent boiling over and to maintain that perfect simmer for the rice to cook evenly.
Step 3: Simmer and Steam
Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice simmer gently for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and allow it to steam for another 10 minutes, locking in the moisture and ensuring the rice reaches tender perfection.
Step 4: Fluff and Set Aside
When the steaming time is up, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains beautifully. Keep 1 cup steamed white rice warm while you finish the stir-fry so it remains the perfect fluffy canvas for the bold toppings.
How to Serve 1 cup steamed white rice
Garnishes
A perfectly served bowl gets a final flourish. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions over the beef and vegetable stir-fry atop the 1 cup steamed white rice to add bursts of crunch and freshness. A drizzle of sriracha can jazz things up with heat for those who love a fiery finish.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple yet complementary with a crisp cucumber salad or tangy kimchi on the side. These light accompaniments offer crunchy and cooling contrasts that balance the rich, spicy flavors of the main bowl built around that essential 1 cup steamed white rice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the spicy ground beef stir-fry in mini lettuce cups placed on top of 1 cup steamed white rice for handheld bites, or layer the ingredients in a glass jar for a portable and visually appealing meal that showcases the colorful veggies and savory beef resting on fluffy rice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your leftover spicy ground beef stir-fry and 1 cup steamed white rice separately in airtight containers. This prevents the rice from absorbing too much moisture and keeps textures fresh. Both will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked ground beef mixture and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best texture, freeze the 1 cup steamed white rice separately, as rice can become grainy when frozen and thawed. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating leftovers, gently warm the 1 cup steamed white rice with a splash of water in the microwave or on the stovetop to restore moisture. Reheat the beef and veggies in a skillet until hot and make sure everything is piping before serving to keep that fresh-from-the-wok feel alive.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice instead of 1 cup steamed white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice or jasmine rice works well, though cooking times and water ratios vary slightly. Adjust accordingly to maintain that fluffy texture.
How do I adjust the spice level in this stir-fry bowl?
Simply tweak the amount of chili flakes or add a dash of sriracha sauce when serving. You can go milder or ramp up the heat to suit your taste buds.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! Swap ground beef for firm tofu or tempeh, and keep the savory seasoning as is. It’s just as delicious and packed with flavor.
Can I prepare the 1 cup steamed white rice in advance?
Definitely. Cooking the rice ahead saves time for busy nights. Just keep it covered and warm or refrigerate and reheat gently before assembling your bowl.
What can I add to make this meal more filling?
Top your bowl with a fried or poached egg for extra protein and richness, or add a handful of steamed edamame or roasted nuts for crunch and nutrients.
Final Thoughts
This spicy ground beef stir-fry paired with 1 cup steamed white rice is a comforting, manageable cooking adventure you can confidently make any night of the week. It’s packed with layers of flavor and texture that excite your palate while delivering simple nourishment. I can’t wait for you to try it and toss together your own favorite variations, making this bowl truly yours.
