Name: Cuban-Inspired Ground Beef and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: Cuban-inspired
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups boiling water; 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 tbsp chicken bouillon powder; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 white onion, diced; 1 lb ground beef; salt, to taste; black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken stock; 1/2 cup pimento-stuffed green olives, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, plus more for garnish

1

Measure and rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.

2

In a medium pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and toast for about a minute, stirring constantly.

3

Stir in the chicken bouillon powder, then pour in 2 cups of boiling water. Bring to a simmer, then cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed.

4

While the rice is cooking, dice the red bell pepper and white onion.

5

Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced pepper and onion and sauté until they begin to soften.

6

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until browned.

7

Once the beef is almost cooked through, stir in the tomato paste, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring to combine.

8

Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the skillet along with the chicken stock. Stir everything together.

9

Roughly chop the green olives and add them to the beef mixture. Stir to incorporate.

10

Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro.

11

Serve the ground beef mixture over the cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro if desired.