Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This Rice Beef Consomme is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s surprisingly easy to make, packed with protein and nutrients, and tastes absolutely divine. This homemade recipe is a delicious alternative to takeout, offering a satisfying and comforting meal the whole family will love. It's one of those best recipes that's both simple and impressive.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your consommé.
-
Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This ensures a leaner and healthier final dish.
-
Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
-
Simmer until rice is cooked: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust seasoning with salt to your preference.
-
Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This simple garnish adds a pop of color and freshness. This easy recipe is perfect served hot.
Cooking Tips for the Best Rice Beef Consomme:
- For a richer flavor: Use homemade beef broth instead of store-bought. You can easily make your own by simmering beef bones with vegetables.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onions. Dice them into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is great for meal prepping! It tastes even better the next day.
Variations:
- Chicken Consomme: Substitute ground chicken for ground beef and chicken broth for beef broth.
- Vegetarian Consomme: Omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead. Add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Rice Beef Consomme is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are easy to prepare. It’s a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights and a great way to incorporate homemade cooking into your routine. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish!