- Bell pepper: 1 large, diced (red or any color preferred)
- Garlic cloves: 3, minced (for depth of flavor)
- Spanish saffron: a pinch (optional but adds authentic taste and color)
- Tomatoes: 2 medium, chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes for convenience)
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups (use low-sodium for healthier options)
- Tomato sauce: 1/2 cup (for extra flavor; optional)
- Chili powder: 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste or use paprika)
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon (essential in authentic Spanish rice dishes)
- Salt and pepper: to taste (ensure you have a good quality salt like sea salt for enhanced flavors)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (for sautéing, choose extra virgin for best taste)
- Lime juice: 1 tablespoon (optional but adds freshness)
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- Beefy Spanish Rice Recipe
- Long-grain White Rice
- Ground Beef
- Saffron
- Spanish Rice Ingredients
- Authentic Spanish Rice
- Healthy Spanish Rice
Feel free to adjust quantities and ingredients according to your taste or dietary preferences!
Steps
### How to Make a Hearty Beef Spanish Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide
#### Introduction
Beef Spanish Rice is a classic comfort food that combines flavorful beef with fragrant rice, tomatoes, and spices. This recipe offers a hearty and savory dish perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Follow these detailed steps to create this delicious meal.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Rice**
- Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and 1/4 cup chicken broth to a boil.
- Add the rinsed rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
2. **Cook the Ground Beef**
- Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. **Sauté Vegetables**
- In another pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until softened.
- Stir in the diced bell pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. **Combine Ingredients**
- Add the cooked ground beef to the vegetable mixture and stir well.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, cumin, paprika, and any remaining chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. **Combine Rice and Beef**
- Once the beef is fully cooked, add the prepared rice into the skillet with the beef mixture.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. **Serve**
- Let the rice and beef mixture simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes on low heat while you prepare garnishes or serve directly.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired before serving.
#### Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the ground beef in a mixture of olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Ensure that your rice is perfectly cooked to avoid any mushiness when mixed with the beef sauce.
By following these steps, you can create a delicious and hearty Beef Spanish Rice dish that will satisfy any craving. Enjoy your meal!