Feeling tired of bland dinners? This Pineapple Teriyaki Beef Bowl is your new go-to for a healthy, flavor-packed meal that’s incredibly easy to make. You’ll love how quickly you can put together this delicious and satisfying dish, perfect for any weeknight.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Flank Steak: You can substitute with sirloin or even ground beef for a quicker cook.
- Pineapple Chunks: Fresh is best, but canned (drained) works too.
- Teriyaki Sauce: Choose a low-sodium option or make your own for healthier control.
- Brown Rice: Quinoa or cauliflower rice are great low-carb alternatives.
Ingredients:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- ½ cup low-sodium teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple or fresh)
For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 kcal
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or wok, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and pineapple juice. Set this flavorful sauce aside.
2. Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your thinly sliced flank steak and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Make sure to stir it occasionally.
3. Add Pineapple and Vegetables
Stir in the pineapple chunks, sliced red bell pepper, and shredded carrots with the cooked beef. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the vegetables start to soften slightly.
4. Introduce the Teriyaki Sauce
Pour your prepared teriyaki sauce over the beef and vegetable mixture. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats everything nicely. This creates a rich glaze for your healthy beef bowls.
5. Assemble Your Healthy Beef Bowls
Divide the cooked brown rice among four bowls. Spoon the pineapple teriyaki beef and vegetable mixture over the rice. Garnish with fresh chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like.
Variation Ideas:
- Add steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra greens.
- Top with a fried egg for added protein and richness.
- Spice it up with a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes.
- Use chicken or shrimp instead of beef for a different protein.
Storage Instructions:
You can store leftover Pineapple Teriyaki Beef Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use pre-cut beef for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Pre-cut stir-fry beef or beef strips work perfectly and save you prep time.
Q: How do I make this a gluten-free Healthy Beef Bowl?
A: Use a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos instead of traditional teriyaki sauce.
Q: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can mix the teriyaki sauce ingredients up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Q: What kind of rice is best for these healthy beef bowls?
A: Brown rice adds fiber, but white rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice are great options.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce when serving for an extra kick.
Q: Is flank steak the only beef cut I can use?
A: No, you can use sirloin, skirt steak, or even thinly sliced round steak for these healthy beef bowls.
