Green Beans And Rice
A hearty and flavorful dish combining tender beef, green beans, and tomato paste, infused with cinnamon. Perfect for family dinners and those who enjoy savory, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- If green beans are fresh, snip the ends and cut in half.
- Wash and drain green beans if frozen.
- In a saucepan, brown the beef cubes in oil or butter.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add green beans and enough water to cover.
- Cook in a covered pot until beans and meat are tender, approximately 40 to 50 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste, salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
- Cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
- Serve over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or using beef broth instead of water. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with mushrooms or chickpeas. Fresh green beans will give a slightly crisper texture, while frozen ones are convenient and still nutritious. Enhance the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish over a bed of fluffy cooked rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. For a Mediterranean twist, consider serving with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese. This dish also complements Mediterranean recipes like Greek Pasta And Beef.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans And Rice contains roughly 861 calories, with 16g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1113mg per serving (48% 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 other meats besides beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken or pork as alternatives to beef. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats have varying tenderness levels. Ground beef or turkey could also work, but you may need to modify the cooking process to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with Green Beans and Rice?
This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. For added flavor, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the juices. You can also serve it alongside dishes like Spicy Beef Salami for a varied meal.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat when ready to serve. Just follow the recipe, allow it to cool, and store in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier the next day.
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).