Asian Style Beef Meal Prep Bowls

Asian-Style Beef Meal Prep Bowls

These flavorful bowls are perfect for a satisfying and healthy lunch or dinner. Packed with protein, veggies, and rice, they’ll keep you energized throughout the day.

Ingredients (for 4 bowls):

• Beef:
  • 1 pound ground beef (or flank steak, thinly sliced)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Rice:
  • 1 cup brown rice (rinsed)
  • 1 1/2 cups water
• Veggies:
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
• Sauce (optional):
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Cooking Guide:

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cornstarch, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the beef and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for extra flavor.

2. Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, combine rinsed brown rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until cooked through.

3. Prepare the Veggies: While the rice cooks, steam or stir-fry the broccoli florets, carrots, and bell pepper until tender-crisp (about 5-7 minutes).

4. Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned throughout (about 5-7 minutes).

5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice, beef, and veggies among four meal prep containers. Top with sliced green onions and drizzle with the optional sauce (whisk together soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil).

Tips:

• Variations:
  • For a spicier bowl, add additional red pepper flakes to the marinade or drizzle with sriracha mayo.
  • Swap ground beef for another protein like ground chicken, turkey, or tofu (firm tofu, crumbled and pan-fried).
  • Add other veggies like snap peas, baby corn, or shredded cabbage.
  • For a more Korean-inspired bowl, use gochujang (Korean chili paste) in the marinade.
• Storage: These bowls can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave before serving.
• Prepping Ahead: Cook the rice and veggies in advance to save time on assembly day. Marinate the beef overnight for maximum flavor.
• Portion Control: Each bowl is a well-balanced and portion-controlled meal.