Arroz Carreteiro Recipe: Easy Traditional Brazilian Dish

Arroz Carreteiro is a traditional Brazilian dish that captures the rustic spirit of the country’s southern gaúcho culture. Originally a hearty meal for the wagon drivers (carreteiros) who traveled long distances with their ox carts, this dish combines simple ingredients like rice, beef, and aromatic vegetables into a flavorful one-pot wonder.

It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion, offering a rich blend of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that make every bite memorable.

Whether you’re looking to explore authentic Brazilian cuisine or craving a filling and tasty rice dish, arroz carreteiro is an excellent recipe to try. This recipe is straightforward enough for home cooks but delivers complex, satisfying flavors that impress every time.

Plus, it’s versatile—adapt it with your favorite proteins and spices for a personal twist. Let’s dive into this delicious journey and bring a taste of Brazil right into your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Arroz Carreteiro is beloved for its rich, smoky flavors and hearty ingredients that come together in one pot. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover beef or dried meat, making it economical and sustainable.

This dish is incredibly versatile—you can adjust the spice levels and ingredients based on what you have on hand. It’s also a complete meal, combining protein, carbs, and veggies, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Plus, the cooking process is simple and rewarding, offering a chance to master Brazilian comfort food with minimal fuss. The aroma alone will have your whole house smelling like a cozy Brazilian kitchen!

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 lb (450g) beef (preferably flank steak or dried beef), cut into small cubes or shredded
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
• 1 bay leaf

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)
• Serving bowl or plates

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: If using fresh beef, cut into bite-sized cubes. If using dried beef (carne seca), soak it in water for a few hours to remove excess salt, then shred it finely.
2. Heat the oil: Place your skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add garlic and peppers: Stir in the minced garlic and diced green bell pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Cook the beef: Add the beef pieces to the pan and sauté until browned on all sides. This should take about 6-8 minutes. If using dried beef, cook until heated through.
5. Add tomatoes and spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, smoked paprika, chili flakes (optional), bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and meld with the beef.
6. Prepare the rice: Meanwhile, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well.
7. Add rice and broth: Pour the rinsed rice into the pan, stirring to coat the grains with the flavorful mixture. Then, add the beef broth or water and bring to a boil.
8. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
9. Rest and fluff: Turn off the heat and let the arroz carreteiro rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaf and fluff the rice gently with a fork.
10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the top and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For an even smokier flavor, try adding a few strips of bacon or smoked sausage to the dish during the beef cooking step.

Variation: Substitute beef with chicken or pork for a different protein option. You can also add vegetables like peas, corn, or carrots to boost nutrition.

Make it vegetarian: For a meatless version, replace beef with sautéed mushrooms and smoked paprika for depth of flavor. Try this alongside our Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious for more flavorful vegetarian rice dishes.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Arroz Carreteiro is a complete and satisfying dish on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some traditional and complementary sides.

• Serve with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lime.
• Pair it with Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for a casual, fun meal.
• Offer a side of pickled vegetables or a simple cucumber salad to add brightness and crunch.
• For drinks, a cold beer or a fruity caipirinha will complement the smoky flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Arroz Carreteiro is more than just a rice dish; it’s a taste of Brazilian history and culture, brought to life with simple yet robust ingredients. This recipe is perfect for home cooks looking to try something new, hearty, and deeply satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

With its smoky beef, tender rice, and aromatic spices, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Don’t hesitate to personalize it with your favorite proteins or veggies, and enjoy the rich flavors that make this dish a beloved staple in Brazil. If you’re interested in exploring more rice-based recipes that are easy and delicious, check out our Brown Rice Recipe VegRecipesOfIndia: Easy & Healthy Meals for a wholesome twist.

Happy cooking!

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