Gather all ingredients.

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add beef and 1/2 cup water; cook and stir until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Season with black pepper and add more water as needed; do not let beef dry out.

Add potatoes, carrots, and 3 tablespoons soy sauce; cook for 4 minutes, adding more water if mixture is too dry. Add raisins and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, again adding water as needed.

Pour in 1 can tomato sauce. Fill the can with water and swirl to remove excess sauce; pour into the saucepan. Stir in remaining 1/2 can sauce until combined. Add more water as needed to create a saucy but not soupy consistency.

Stir in bell pepper, sugar, and remaining 3 tablespoons soy sauce. Cook, stirring occasionally and adding water as needed so sauce does not dry out, until all vegetables are tender, 3 to 5 minutes.