Spanish Hamburger Rice
A hearty Spanish-inspired dish combining seasoned rice, ground beef, vegetables, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the rice in 2 tablespoons of cooking oil until golden brown.
- Add hamburger, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, and chopped celery.
- Stir and cook until the hamburger is browned.
- Add cooked tomatoes, condensed beef bouillon, salt, soy sauce, and sugar.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of spices like paprika or cumin. You can substitute the hamburger with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation. If you prefer a smokier taste, adding a dash of smoked paprika can enhance the dish. Browning the rice is crucial for depth; be careful not to burn it. This recipe is also great as a base for other beef recipes like Beefaroni Meat Sandwich.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spanish Hamburger Rice with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside roasted potatoes or a side of beans, which complement the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and microwave until warm or heat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This will help restore moisture and prevent the rice from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Hamburger Rice contains roughly 368 calories, with 12g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2872mg per serving (125% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just follow the instructions, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little water to maintain the texture.
What can I substitute for the beef bouillon?
If you don't have condensed beef bouillon, low-sodium beef broth or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute. Just ensure to adjust the salt content as needed since broths can vary in saltiness.
Is it possible to add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables such as corn, peas, or carrots to add color and nutrition. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all ingredients are evenly cooked.
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).