When craving a hearty and flavorful meal, dirty rice with ground beef is a perfect choice. This classic Southern dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various adaptations. With its rich spices and satisfying textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this recipe will take your taste buds on a delightful journey.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
One serving (about 1 cup) of dirty rice with ground beef contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This nutritional breakdown provides a hearty meal that is both filling and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
- Add the rinsed rice, beef broth, Cajun seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, garnish with green onions, and serve warm.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, brown rice can be used instead of white rice for added fiber.
Serving and Pairings
Dirty rice pairs wonderfully with collard greens, cornbread, or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside fried catfish or shrimp.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover dirty rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much liquid can make the rice mushy.
- Not rinsing the rice can lead to excess starch.
- Overcooking the beef can make it tough.
- Skipping the seasoning will result in bland rice.
- Not letting the rice sit after cooking can affect texture.
Helpful Tips
- Adjust the spice level by adding hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
- For extra flavor, sauté the rice in butter before adding broth.
- Experiment with different vegetables like carrots or peas.
- Use homemade beef broth for a richer taste.
FAQs
Can I make dirty rice without meat?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by using mushrooms or lentils as a substitute for ground beef, and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
What type of rice is best for dirty rice?
Long-grain white rice is traditionally used for dirty rice as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well, but brown rice can also be used for a healthier option.
How can I spice up my dirty rice?
You can add additional spices like paprika, cumin, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor profile of your dirty rice.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like corn, peas, or diced tomatoes to add more nutrients and flavor to the dish.
How long does leftover dirty rice last?
Leftover dirty rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month for longer storage.
Conclusion
Dirty rice with ground beef is a comforting dish that brings a taste of the South to your table. Its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients make it a perfect choice for family meals or gatherings. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy this delicious dish and make it a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Dirty Rice With Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
- Add the rinsed rice, beef broth, Cajun seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, garnish with green onions, and serve warm.