Arroz Con Carne Recipe: Easy and Delicious Meal Ideas

Arroz con carne is a beloved dish that brings the comforting flavors of tender meat and fragrant rice together in a single, hearty meal. Originating from Latin American cuisine, this recipe is a wonderful blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and slow-cooked goodness that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or aiming to impress guests with a home-cooked classic, arroz con carne offers a delicious, filling experience that’s easy to make and utterly satisfying.

This recipe balances the richness of the meat with the light fluffiness of perfectly cooked rice and vibrant vegetables, creating a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to different meats and seasoning preferences, making it a go-to meal for many home cooks.

Get ready to dive into a dish that’s not only flavorful but also brings warmth and joy to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This arroz con carne recipe is a perfect harmony of flavors and simplicity. It’s ideal for those who love one-pot meals that save time without compromising taste.

• Rich, savory meat: Slow-cooked beef or pork becomes tender and juicy, infusing the rice with deep flavor.
• Fluffy, flavorful rice: Cooked in the same pot as the meat and spices, the rice absorbs all the delicious juices.
• Easy to customize: Add your favorite vegetables or swap meats to fit your dietary preferences.
• Family-friendly: This dish is a crowd-pleaser that can feed several people with minimal effort.
• One-pot convenience: Less cleanup, more enjoyment!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) beef chuck or pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 large tomato, chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
• Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped (for heat)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Lid for the skillet or Dutch oven
• Serving bowl or plate

Instructions

1. Prepare the meat: Pat the beef or pork pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Brown the meat: Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in your skillet or Dutch oven. Add the meat pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown each side for about 3-4 minutes until a crust forms. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add tomatoes and spices: Stir in chopped tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and bay leaf. Cook for 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Return meat to the pot: Add the browned meat back into the pan. Stir to coat with the tomato and spice mixture.
6. Add rice and broth: Pour in the rice and beef broth. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the meat is cooked through. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to retain steam.
8. Rest and fluff: Remove from heat and let the arroz con carne rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley on top before serving for a burst of freshness.

Tips & Variations

“For a richer flavor, marinate the meat in garlic, cumin, and paprika for a few hours before cooking.”

• Meat alternatives: Swap beef or pork for chicken thighs or turkey for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian twist: Replace meat with hearty mushrooms or plant-based meat substitutes for a satisfying meat-free version.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Vegetables: Incorporate peas, corn, or diced carrots for added color and nutrition.
• Rice choice: Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber; increase liquid and cooking time accordingly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Arroz con carne stands beautifully on its own as a complete meal, but you can elevate it further with a few complementary sides.

• Fresh salad: A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Avocado slices or guacamole: The creaminess pairs wonderfully with the savory meat and rice.
• Refried beans or black beans: Boost the protein and fiber content for a more filling meal.
• Warm tortillas: Serve on the side to scoop up the arroz con carne or make handheld wraps.
• Pickled jalapeños or hot sauce: For those who love a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Arroz con carne is a delicious, comforting dish that brings together the best of Latin American flavors with ease and heartiness. It’s perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend meals, offering a flavorful combination of tender meat, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice.

The versatility of this recipe means you can tailor it to your taste—whether that’s by switching the meat, adding vegetables, or adjusting the spice level.

Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll find yourself returning to it time and again, not just for its taste but for its simplicity and the joy it brings to your table. For more inspiring meal ideas, check out our Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, explore the vibrant flavors in Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, or try some quick bites with our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Happy cooking and buen provecho!

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