Minced meat and vegetables in oyster sauce with rice

Minced Meat and Vegetables in Oyster Sauce with Rice Recipe

This quick and delicious recipe combines savory minced meat, crunchy vegetables, and the umami-rich flavor of oyster sauce, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a comforting meal anytime.

Ingredients

For the minced meat and vegetables:

• 1 lb (450g) minced meat (beef, pork, or chicken)
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable or sesame oil)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 medium carrot, julienned or diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup snap peas or green beans, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

For the rice:

• 2 cups jasmine or basmati rice
• 4 cups water
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Rinse the Rice: Wash the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed.
4. Rest: Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 2: Cook the Minced Meat

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Cook the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the minced meat. Break it apart with a spatula, cooking until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes).

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

1. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the carrots and broccoli first, as they take longer to cook. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes.
2. Add Softer Vegetables: Stir in the bell pepper and snap peas, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Add Seasonings: Stir in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), and black pepper. Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables evenly.
2. Thicken the Sauce: Pour in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch dissolved in water) while stirring constantly. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the ingredients.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Spoon a generous portion of cooked rice onto each plate. Top with the minced meat and vegetables in oyster sauce.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve warm with optional chili flakes or a side of soy sauce for additional seasoning.

Cooking Tips and Variations

1. Protein Options: Swap minced meat for ground turkey, tofu crumbles, or plant-based meat alternatives to suit your preferences.
2. Vegetable Substitutes: Feel free to use zucchini, mushrooms, bok choy, or baby corn in place of the listed vegetables.
3. Rice Alternatives: Pair the dish with brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even noodles for a twist.
4. Spice it Up: Add a dash of sriracha or chili oil for a spicy kick.
5. Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables and prepare the sauce ingredients in advance to save time during cooking.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg

This flavorful dish is an excellent choice for a balanced and satisfying meal. It combines protein, vegetables, and grains, making it a one-dish wonder that’s easy to customize and quick to whip up. Enjoy your minced meat and vegetables in oyster sauce with rice!