Spanish Rice(For Big Recipe)

Prep: 15 min Cook: 45 min Cuisine: Spanish

A hearty, flavorful Spanish rice dish packed with ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 to 3 lb. ground beef
  • 3 or 4 medium to large onions
  • 2 or 3 medium bell peppers
  • 2 lb. rice
  • 6 to 7 cans tomato sauce
  • 32 oz. catsup
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • garlic pepper to taste
  • onion powder to taste

Instructions

  1. Increase the amount of hamburger for larger recipes as desired.
  2. In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the cooked beef and sauté until vegetables are tender.
  4. Stir in the rice and cook for a few minutes until lightly toasted.
  5. Add tomato sauce, catsup, salt, pepper, garlic pepper, onion powder, and a few drops of Tabasco sauce.
  6. Mix well and bring to a boil.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed, about 30-40 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. If you're short on time, you can substitute the rice with pre-cooked rice or quinoa to speed up the cooking process. Using leftover cooked rice is also a great way to utilize what you have on hand. Remember to taste as you go, especially with the seasonings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spanish Rice as a hearty main dish or as a side alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Fried Lumpia(Eggrolls) for a delightful meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. Consider serving it with a side of Old Fashioned Sauerkraut for a unique twist.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent drying out and microwave until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Spanish Rice(For Big Recipe) contains roughly 682 calories, with 12g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

682 kcal 34% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.9g 24% DV
Total Fat 23.8g 30% DV
Carbs 116.4g 42% DV
Fiber 5.4g 19% DV
Sugar 56.3g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 1122.1mg 24% DV
Cholesterol 0.4mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 245.3mcg 27% DV
Vitamin C 22mg 24% DV
Calcium 110.9mg 9% DV
Iron 5.4mg 30% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 to about 45-50 minutes, and check for doneness periodically.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative like crumbled tofu or tempeh. You may also want to add more vegetables for added flavor and texture.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the dish up to the simmering stage and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just heat it on the stove until warmed through, making sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

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).

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