Mexican Dirty Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those seeking a quick, delicious, and filling meal. The combination of ground meat, rice, and vegetables ensures a balanced dish, while the Mexican spices add a vibrant kick. It’s also a fantastic way to utilize leftover rice, making it both economical and convenient.​

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey​
• 2-3 cups cooked white rice​
• 1/2 bell pepper, chopped​
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped​
• 1 teaspoon chili powder​
• 1 teaspoon onion powder​
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin​
• 1 can (15.25 oz) corn, drained​
• 1 can (15.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed​
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste​
• Juice of half a lime​
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using lean meat)​

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil (if using lean meat). Sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until softened, about 2 minutes.​

2. Cook Meat: Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.​

3. Season: Stir in chili powder, onion powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.​

4. Add Vegetables and Rice: Add corn, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.​

5. Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.​

6. Finish: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the rice mixture and give it a final stir. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.​

7. Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve hot as a main dish or a side.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6​
• Prep Time: 10 minutes​
• Cook Time: 20 minutes​
• Total Time: 30 minutes​

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the ground meat and add more beans or vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.​
• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.​
• Cheesy: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese before serving for a creamy texture.​
• Seafood: Replace the ground meat with cooked shrimp or diced fish for a seafood twist.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.​
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.​

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used; just ensure it’s cooked beforehand.​

2. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or use spicy chili powder.​

3. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach would be great additions.​

4. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all canned ingredients are certified gluten-free.​

5. Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, it reheats well, making it great for meal prep.​

6. What toppings go well with this dish?

Sour cream, avocado slices, or shredded cheese are excellent choices.​

7. Can I use ground chicken?

Yes, ground chicken is a lean alternative to beef or turkey.​

8. How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Ensure the rice is cooked al dente and not overcooked initially.​

9. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, use about 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes.​

10. What can I serve with Mexican Dirty Rice?

It pairs well with tortillas, a simple salad, or grilled vegetables.​

Conclusion

Mexican Dirty Rice is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side, its rich combination of spices, meat, and vegetables is sure to please. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal rotation

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