Beef Stir Fry with White Rice and Vegetables

Ingredients

• Lean beef strips 6 oz
• White rice 1.5 cups
• Mixed bell peppers and onions 1.5 cups
• Soy sauce 1 tbsp
• Olive oil 1 tbsp
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Method

1. Prepare the rice. If you haven't cooked the rice yet, rinse 3/4 cup of uncooked white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add it to a pot with 1.5 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
   Tip: Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky.
2. Prepare the vegetables and beef. Wash and slice the bell peppers and onions into thin strips. Pat the lean beef strips dry with paper towels to help them brown better during cooking.
   Tip: Dry beef helps get a nice sear and prevents steaming.
3. Heat the pan and oil. Place a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and swirl to coat the surface.
   Tip: Make sure the pan is hot before adding beef to get a good sear.
4. Cook the beef. Add the beef strips in a single layer to the hot pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes to brown on one side. Then stir or flip the strips and cook for another 1-2 minutes until beef is browned but still tender. Remove beef from the pan and set aside.
   Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.
5. Cook the vegetables. In the same pan, add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until they soften but still have some crunch.
   Tip: Keep stirring to prevent burning and to cook evenly.
6. Combine beef and vegetables. Return the cooked beef to the pan with the vegetables. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook together for another 1-2 minutes so the flavors combine.
   Tip: Taste and add salt or pepper if needed, but soy sauce usually provides enough saltiness.
7. Serve. Spoon the cooked white rice onto plates and top with the beef and vegetable stir fry. Serve immediately while hot.
   Tip: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if you like.

Pro tips

• Slice beef thinly against the grain for more tender bites.
• Use a high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan to get a good sear on the beef.