1. Finely chop onion. Cut peppers into strips, then cut strips in half.

2. In a large non-stick skillet, heat vegetable oil over high heat. Add onion and cook 2–3 minutes or until translucent.

3. Add meat to skillet. Using a wooden spoon, crumble ground beef and cook for 3 minutes. Avoid over-stirring to allow meat to brown.

4. Meanwhile, mince garlic.

5. Add garlic, soy sauce and sambal oelek. Mix well. Cook for another 2–3 minutes or until meat is cooked through.

6. Add peppers, honey and sesame oil. Stir to combine and cook for 1–2 minutes or until peppers are tender.

7. Meanwhile, coarsely chop basil. 

8. Garnish with basil and serve with rice.

Store for 4 days in the refrigerator or 4 months in the freezer.

Chef’s Secrets
• Sambal oelek is a hot sauce from Indonesia. Its texture sets it apart from other hot sauces, as you can see the chili pepper seeds. If your taste buds are not accustomed to spicy dishes, start with 5 mL (1 tsp.) sambal oelek and adjust as needed. Do you like spicy foods? Then go for the 10 mL (2 tsp.)!

• You can substitute Thai basil with regular basil or green onions.

Photo credit: Maude Chauvin