Spanish Rice
Spanish Rice is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and seasoned rice. This comforting meal is infused with the richness of tomato juice and the sweetness of bell peppers, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown onions lightly in shortening.
- Add ground beef and break up particles so the meat mixture is very fine.
- When the beef is browned, drain excess fat and add diced green peppers, tomato juice, and water.
- Stir in the cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for about 30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh garlic or spices like cumin and paprika. If you're out of tomato juice, crushed tomatoes or even salsa can work as substitutes. To make the dish spicier, add jalapeños or chili powder. Using leftover rice from your fridge can save time and enhance the dish's texture. This recipe is versatile and fits well within various Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spanish Rice warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with Easy Taco Dinner or can be enjoyed as a filling side alongside grilled meats or tacos. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of refried beans or a simple green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or microwave in a covered dish for about 2-3 minutes. You can add a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Rice contains roughly 728 calories, with 14g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2391mg per serving (104% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to cook the brown rice separately before adding it to the dish, as it typically takes longer to cook than white rice. Adjust the liquid quantities accordingly.
What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe?
You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein or crumbled tofu. Adjust seasonings to ensure the flavors are balanced.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder when cooking the onions. You can also top the finished dish with sliced fresh jalapeños or serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.
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).