Beef And Spanish Rice
A hearty Spanish-inspired beef and rice dish featuring savory flavors from tomatoes, green pepper, and onions, perfect for satisfying family dinners with a touch of boldness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt oleo in a 4-quart pot over medium heat.
- Add uncooked rice and brown slightly.
- Add lean hamburger and brown until cooked through.
- Add chopped tomatoes, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, salt, paprika, and boiling water to the pot.
- Mix well, cover, and cook over medium heat for about 25 minutes.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. You can substitute the lean hamburger with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, use black beans instead of meat. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as corn or peas, or even add a can of green chilies for extra heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beef and Spanish Rice with a side of Green Beans Mexicali for a colorful and nutritious meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or tortilla chips for a complete dinner. You can also serve it as a filling for burritos or alongside tacos for a fun twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Spanish Rice contains roughly 805 calories, with 30g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (85% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and protein (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Increase the boiling water to 3/4 cup and cook for about 40-45 minutes instead of 25 minutes to ensure the rice is tender and fully cooked.
What can I do if I don't have oleo?
If you don't have oleo, you can easily substitute it with butter or olive oil. Both options will provide a delicious flavor to the dish. Use the same amount as specified in the recipe to achieve similar results.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).