Rice Stuff
A hearty, comforting rice dish with savory hamburger, tender vegetables, and flavorful tomato juice, perfect for family dinners and reheats well for leftovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice the onion and lightly sauté in a large pan or skillet.
- Add hamburger and cook over medium heat until no longer pink, crumbling the meat as it cooks.
- Do not brown the meat, then add half of the tomato juice; stir in both cans of Veg-All including the juice.
- Add the herbs and spices packet from the rice box, stirring as you add it, then add the dry rice.
- Stir thoroughly and reduce the heat.
- Cover and let simmer, adding the rest of the tomato juice as the first is absorbed, until the juice is used up.
- Cook until the rice is tender and the dish is no longer soupy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers while sautéing the onion. If you don't have Uncle Ben's rice, any long-grain rice will work, but adjust cooking time accordingly. To make it a bit healthier, swap out hamburger for ground turkey or chicken. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish, try adding parsley or basil for a fresh touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Rice Stuff hot, garnished with fresh herbs for an appealing look. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Oven Baked Potato Salad or a light vegetable dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or additional tomato juice to prevent the rice from drying out. Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through, or use a microwave for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Stuff contains roughly 12 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the simmering time and increase the tomato juice to ensure the rice cooks thoroughly and absorbs the flavors.
What can I add to make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even a splash of hot sauce when cooking the hamburger. You could also serve with a side of Damn Good Chili for those who enjoy extra heat.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the hamburger with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use lentils for protein. Ensure that the tomato juice and any additional ingredients are also vegetarian-friendly to maintain the dish's integrity.
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).