Looking for a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make? Dirty rice with ground beef is the answer! This iconic Southern dish combines ground beef with aromatic spices and rice, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served on a busy weeknight or at a family gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of dirty rice with ground beef contains approximately 350 calories, 22g protein, 15g fat, and 40g carbohydrates. This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
2. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until softened.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the meat and vegetables.
6. Sprinkle paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper, stirring well.
7. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat, cover the skillet, and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
9. Fluff rice with a fork and adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to switch things up, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Dirty rice pairs wonderfully with cornbread, collard greens, or a simple garden salad. It’s also delicious served alongside fried chicken or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to prevent drying out. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the rice; it should be fluffy, not mushy.
– Avoid using too much salt until the end to adjust flavor.
– Make sure to drain excess fat from the beef to keep the dish light.
– Don’t rush the sautéing process; it enhances flavor.
– Use a good quality broth for the best taste.
– Adjust spices according to your heat preference.
– Let it sit for a few minutes after cooking for the flavors to meld.
Helpful Tips
– Use leftover rice to save time.
– Experiment with different spices for unique flavors.
– Chop vegetables finely for quicker cooking.
– Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
– Serve with a squeeze of lime for added zest.
FAQs
What is the origin of dirty rice?
Dirty rice originated in Louisiana and is a staple in Creole cuisine. The name comes from the mixture of spices and ingredients that give the rice a “dirty” appearance.
Can I make dirty rice ahead of time?
Yes, dirty rice can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving for best results.
Is dirty rice healthy?
Dirty rice can be healthy if made with lean meat and plenty of vegetables. Adjusting the portion size and adding more veggies can enhance its nutritional value.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice can be substituted for white rice, but cooking times may vary. Ensure you add enough liquid and increase cooking time accordingly.
What can I add to dirty rice for extra flavor?
Consider adding diced tomatoes, celery, or even cooked sausage for additional flavor. You can also add herbs like thyme for more depth.
Conclusion
Dirty rice with ground beef is a flavorful dish that showcases the best of Southern cooking. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a meal that brings comfort and joy to any table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a fantastic choice that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Dirty Rice With Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the meat and vegetables.
- Sprinkle paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper, stirring well.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover the skillet, and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Fluff rice with a fork and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
