Spanish Rice with Ground Beef

Flavorful Fiesta: Crafting the Ultimate Spanish Rice with Ground Beef Extravaganza

Embark on a culinary journey with our Spanish Rice with Ground Beef, a dish that encapsulates the rich and vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an exploration of the perfect marriage between seasoned ground beef, aromatic rice, and a symphony of spices. Join us as we guide you through the steps of creating the ultimate Spanish Rice with Ground Beef, promising to be a feast that transports your taste buds to the heart of Spain.

Ingredients:

For the Spanish Rice:

  1. 2 cups long-grain white rice
  2. 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  3. 1 onion, finely chopped
  4. 1 bell pepper, diced
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  7. 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  8. 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  9. 1 teaspoon chili powder
  10. 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  11. Salt and black pepper to taste
  12. 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
  13. Fresh cilantro for garnish

For the Seasoned Ground Beef:

  1. 1 pound ground beef
  2. 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  3. 1 teaspoon chili powder
  4. Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Spanish Rice:
    • Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
    • In a large skillet or paella pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
    • Add chopped onions, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened.
  2. Add the Rice and Tomatoes:
    • Stir in the rinsed rice, ensuring it’s well-coated with the sautéed vegetables.
    • Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, mixing them into the rice.
  3. Season and Simmer:
    • Sprinkle ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the rice mixture.
    • Pour in the broth, stir, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  4. Cook to Perfection:
    • Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
    • Fluff the rice with a fork, cover, and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes to absorb any remaining liquid.
  5. Prepare the Seasoned Ground Beef:
    • In a separate skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
    • Season with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Assemble and Garnish:
    • Fold the seasoned ground beef into the Spanish rice, ensuring an even distribution.
    • Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Sofrito Magic:
    • Enhance the flavor by adding a sofrito mixture of onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes to the rice.
  • Seafood Infusion:
    • Elevate the dish by adding cooked shrimp, mussels, or squid to the Spanish rice.
  • Vegan Twist:
    • Replace ground beef with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegan version.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

  • Keto Version:
    • Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
    • Adjust the quantity of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce to fit your carb limit.
  • Low-Carb Version:
    • Opt for a mix of cauliflower rice and regular rice for a reduced-carb option.
    • Use a sugar-free tomato sauce to minimize carb content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? A1: Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time and liquid quantity according to the instructions on the brown rice package.

Q2: How can I make the rice less sticky? A2: Rinsing the rice thoroughly before cooking helps remove excess starch, resulting in less sticky rice.

Q3: Can I freeze Spanish Rice with Ground Beef? A3: Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Q4: What can I serve with Spanish Rice? A4: Spanish rice pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a side dish to your favorite Mexican or Spanish-inspired dishes.

Q5: Can I use pre-packaged taco seasoning for the ground beef? A5: Certainly! Adjust the quantity according to your taste preference.

In conclusion, our Spanish Rice with Ground Beef is a celebration of bold flavors and culinary ingenuity. Whether you follow the classic recipe or explore keto and low-carb adaptations, this dish promises to be a centerpiece of your dining experience. Elevate your meals with the aromatic allure of seasoned ground beef, the comforting texture of rice, and the harmonious blend of spices that capture the essence of Spain. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary fiesta that transports your taste buds to a world of savory satisfaction!