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Thai Basil Beef Bowls with Coconut Rice Recipe


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3.9 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

These Thai Basil Beef Bowls combine flavorful ground beef cooked with bell peppers and aromatic Thai ingredients, served over creamy coconut-infused jasmine rice. Ready in just 45 minutes, this vibrant Thai-inspired dish is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.


Ingredients

Rice:

  • 1 cup Jasmine rice or Basmati
  • 14 ounces coconut milk
  • 3/4 cups water

Beef:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons garlic paste
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (from 2 limes)
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 teaspoons Thai chili sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup fresh basil, packed and roughly chopped
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
  • Scallions (for garnish)
  • Cucumber, quartered (for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the rice: Rinse 1 cup Jasmine rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 14 ounces of coconut milk and 3/4 cup water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, cover with a lid, and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
  2. Cook the beef: While the rice is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound ground beef and brown it for 4 to 5 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, remove the beef from the pan, drain excess grease, and set aside.
  3. Sauté vegetables and aromatics: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and the chopped red bell pepper. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Add 2 tablespoons garlic paste and cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.
  4. Make the sauce and combine: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup lime juice, 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, 2 teaspoons Thai chili sauce, and 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper if using. Pour this sauce mixture into the skillet with the peppers and garlic. Return the cooked ground beef to the pan and stir well. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and coat the beef and vegetables.
  5. Add basil and carrot: Stir in 1 cup roughly chopped fresh basil and cook for 1 minute until wilted. Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the grated carrot for added texture and sweetness.
  6. Serve and garnish: Divide the coconut rice among bowls. Spoon the Thai basil beef mixture over the rice. Garnish with red pepper flakes, scallions, and quartered cucumber. For extra spice, add hot sauce as desired.

Notes

  • Ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef for a leaner option.
  • If you prefer a milder dish, omit the cayenne pepper and chili sauce.
  • Feel free to add fresh hot chili peppers for an extra kick.
  • This dish is naturally sweet from the brown sugar and coconut milk.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Thai