Greek Ground Beef With Rice
Greek Ground Beef With Rice offers a savory blend of spices and rich flavors, perfect for a hearty, satisfying meal suited for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- When some grease accumulates, add chopped onion and cook until soft.
- Drain off excess grease.
- Add tomato sauce, red wine or sherry, wine vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, bay leaf, cinnamon, and ground clove to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for about 15 minutes.
- Serve the sauce over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef with ground lamb, which complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully. If you don't have red wine or sherry, a splash of balsamic vinegar can work as a substitute. Adding a pinch of oregano can also enhance the dish's taste. Be cautious with the salt, especially if your tomato sauce is already seasoned.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a simple Greek salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or tzatziki for added freshness. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Mediterranean recipes like Kabak Dolmasi or Meatball Ratatouille.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greek Ground Beef With Rice contains roughly 746 calories, with 12g protein, 168g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (109% of the Daily Value), and calcium (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 809mg per serving (35% 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 use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust the liquid in the recipe accordingly, as brown rice absorbs more moisture than white rice. It’s a healthier option and adds a nice nutty flavor to the dish.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to ground beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with lentils, quinoa, or a store-bought meat alternative like crumbled tempeh or soy-based grounds. Adjust the cooking time as needed, and consider adding some extra spices or herbs to enhance the flavor of your vegetarian version.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper while simmering the sauce. Alternatively, serve with a side of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to allow each person to adjust the spice level to their liking.
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).