Pepper rice is a flavorful and simple dish that’s often made with rice, black pepper, and other seasonings. It’s commonly served as a side dish or even as a main, depending on the additions. Here’s a basic recipe for making Pepper Rice:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of rice (white or jasmine rice works best)
- 4 cups of water or broth (for more flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (vegetable or sesame oil)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1-2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons of black pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of soy sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup of chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Optional: Add-ins like peas, carrots, or cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp for protein.
Instructions:
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Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water (or broth) to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Let the rice cook for 15-20 minutes (check the rice packaging for exact cook time), then remove it from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork to separate the grains.
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Prepare the Pepper Mix: While the rice is cooking, heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell pepper (if using) and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
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Add Garlic and Pepper: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the black pepper (start with 1 tablespoon and taste to see if you’d like more) and stir everything together.
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Combine with Rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the pepper mixture. Stir well to combine. If you’re adding soy sauce or any optional seasonings (like a little more salt or a dash of chili flakes), add them now and stir again.
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Garnish and Serve: Once everything is well mixed and heated through, serve the rice in bowls and top with chopped green onions for freshness.
Optional Add-ins:
- Protein: You can easily turn this into a full meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or beef strips to the rice.
- Vegetables: Add peas, corn, or carrots for more texture and color.
Enjoy your delicious Pepper Rice—it’s quick, customizable, and packs a punch of flavor!