We’ve all craved that hearty comfort of Arroz Con Carne a time or two especially on busy evenings. This beloved Latin American staple blends fluffy rice with savory meat creating a flavorful dish that’s both simple and satisfying.
Our version highlights fresh ingredients and easy steps to bring authentic tastes right to your kitchen. Whether you’re new to this recipe or a longtime fan we’ll show you how to make it effortlessly so you can enjoy its rich heritage anytime.
Picture sharing this wholesome meal with loved ones and making it a family tradition.
Ingredients
In our Arroz Con Carne recipe, we focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients to capture the authentic flavors of this beloved Latin American dish. We organize the ingredients in the order they are typically used, ensuring you have everything prepared for seamless cooking. For optimal results, we suggest measuring precisely and prepping items like chopping vegetables ahead of time.
Meat and Proteins
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed – We choose tender cuts for a juicy, flavorful base that forms the heart of our Arroz Con Carne.
Aromatics and Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped – This adds a sweet, savory depth; we recommend yellow onions for their robust flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic elevates the aroma; we mince it just before use to preserve its pungent essence.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced – Provides a crisp, vibrant contrast; we opt for fresh peppers to enhance the dish’s texture and color.
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped – Ripe tomatoes bring acidity and freshness; we use them to create a rich, homemade sauce.
Grains and Liquids
- 2 cups long-grain white rice – The foundation of our recipe; we select uncooked rice for its ability to absorb flavors perfectly.
- 4 cups beef broth – Low-sodium preferred; we use it to simmer the rice, infusing every grain with savory goodness.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For sautéing; we find this neutral oil ideal for achieving a golden sear without overpowering other tastes.
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – A key spice in Latin American cuisine; we add it for its warm, earthy notes that define Arroz Con Carne.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Smoked variety recommended; we incorporate it to lend a subtle smokiness and vibrant hue.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing flavors; we adjust based on the broth’s sodium content for a perfectly seasoned dish.
For nutritional reference, here’s a quick overview of approximate values per serving (based on 4 servings). We calculated these using standard ingredient data:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 450 | 23% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Carbohydrates | 55g | 20% |
| Fat | 15g | 19% |
| Sodium | 600mg | 26% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Values may vary slightly based on specific brands and preparation methods.
Required Equipment
To prepare our flavorful Arroz Con Carne, we need a few essential tools that make the cooking process smooth and efficient. These items help us handle everything from chopping ingredients to simmering the dish to perfection. Below, we’ve organized the equipment by the order of use, ensuring we’re fully prepared before we start.
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot: This is our primary vessel for browning the beef and cooking the rice together. We recommend one that’s at least 4 quarts to accommodate the ingredients without overcrowding, allowing for even heat distribution.
- Cutting board and sharp chef’s knife: We’ll use these first for prepping vegetables like onions and garlic. Opt for a sturdy, non-slip board and a knife with a 8-inch blade for precise, safe chopping.
- Measuring cups and spoons set: Accuracy is key for our recipe, so we rely on these to measure out rice, broth, and spices exactly—such as 2 cups of rice or 1 teaspoon of cumin—to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula: Essential for stirring the meat and vegetables as they cook, preventing sticking and ensuring the rice absorbs the savory broth evenly.
- Fine-mesh strainer: If we’re using canned ingredients, this helps us drain excess liquid quickly, keeping our dish from becoming too watery.
By having these tools ready, we ensure our Arroz Con Carne comes together seamlessly, allowing us to focus on the aromas of sizzling meat and spices that make this dish so irresistible.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through the straightforward steps to create our flavorful Arroz Con Carne. We promise this process will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and deliver a hearty, satisfying meal.
Prep
Before we start cooking, we’ll prepare our ingredients to ensure everything comes together smoothly. Begin by chopping 1 large onion and 4 garlic cloves into fine pieces for maximum flavor infusion. Next, dice 2 fresh tomatoes and 2 bell peppers to add a vibrant, juicy base to our dish. Measure out 2 cups of long-grain white rice and rinse it under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear—this step removes excess starch for fluffier results. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to create our spice blend, awakening the senses with its warm, earthy notes. Finally, cut 1 pound of tender beef stew meat into 1-inch cubes, patting them dry with paper towels for better browning later—our goal is to enhance the meat’s rich, savory depth right from the start.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, we’ll move to the stovetop to build layers of flavor. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then add the cubed beef and brown it for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon until it’s golden and releases a mouthwatering, caramelized scent that signals deep flavor development. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside, then in the same pot, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, tomatoes, and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until they soften and release their fragrant, sweet aromas. Return the beef to the pot, sprinkle in our spice blend, and stir for 1 minute to coat everything evenly, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the mixture with bold, smoky undertones. Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium beef broth and bring it to a boil, then add the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes—listen for the gentle bubbling and inhale the hearty steam as the rice absorbs the savory liquids, creating a tender, cohesive dish.
Assemble
To finish our Arroz Con Carne, we’ll combine the elements for a harmonious final product. Once the rice has absorbed the broth and the beef is fork-tender, remove the pot from the heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes—this allows the flavors to meld and the rice to achieve a fluffy, perfectly textured finish. Fluff the mixture gently with a fork to distribute the tender beef and vibrant vegetables evenly, ensuring each bite bursts with juicy, spiced goodness. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a bright, zesty lift before serving—this step transforms the dish into a visually appealing and aromatic centerpiece for your table.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Arroz Con Carne even more convenient for busy days, we recommend preparing components in advance. This approach allows us to preserve the dish’s vibrant flavors and tender textures, ensuring a quick assembly when you’re ready to serve. By planning ahead, we can focus on the comforting aromas of sizzling beef and spices without the rush.
Preparing Ingredients in Advance
We can start by prepping the key elements up to 24 hours before cooking:
- Chop vegetables: Dice onions, garlic, tomatoes, and bell peppers into uniform pieces. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their fresh crunch and aroma.
- Prepare the spice blend: Mix ground cumin, paprika, and any other spices in a small bowl. Transfer the blend to a sealed jar, so we have it ready for that earthy, smoky flavor boost.
- Rinse and measure rice: Wash the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then measure it out. Keep it in a covered bowl in a cool, dry place to prevent it from absorbing moisture and losing its fluffy texture.
Cooking Components Ahead
For deeper flavor development, we can partially cook certain parts:
- Brown the beef: In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat and brown the beef stew meat until it’s seared on all sides. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This step enhances the meat’s savory depth without overcooking the rice.
- Sauté vegetables: If time allows, quickly sauté the chopped onions and garlic in the same pot until fragrant. Cool and refrigerate them separately, so we capture that aromatic essence for easy integration later.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep our Arroz Con Carne at its best, proper storage is key. We suggest the following guidelines:
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prepped Vegetables | Airtight container in fridge | Up to 24 hours | Stir into the pot directly; no reheating needed |
| Browned Beef | Airtight container in fridge | Up to 2 days | Reheat in the pot over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture |
| Spice Blend | Sealed jar in a cool, dry place | Up to 1 week | Use as is for immediate flavor infusion |
When reassembling, we simply combine the make-ahead elements in the Dutch oven, add the beef broth and rice, and simmer as per the main recipe. This method ensures our dish remains flavorful and hassle-free, making Arroz Con Carne a go-to for effortless meals.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring Arroz Con Carne with you, turning simple ingredients into a hearty favorite that warms the soul. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a way to connect and create lasting memories.
As we wrap up, we’re confident you’ll find joy in customizing this dish to suit your tastes. Give it a try and let it become part of your kitchen routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Arroz Con Carne?
Arroz Con Carne is a popular Latin American dish featuring fluffy rice cooked with savory beef in a flavorful sauce. It uses fresh ingredients like onions, garlic, and tomatoes to create a comforting, wholesome meal that’s perfect for family gatherings. This dish is simple to prepare and can become a cherished tradition.
What are the key ingredients for Arroz Con Carne?
The main ingredients include tender beef stew meat, aromatic vegetables like onions and garlic, fresh tomatoes, long-grain white rice, low-sodium beef broth, and spices such as cumin and paprika. These combine to make a rich, flavorful dish that’s nutritious and easy to customize.
What equipment is needed to make Arroz Con Carne?
Essential tools include a large Dutch oven for cooking, a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board for prepping veggies, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a wooden spoon for stirring, and a fine-mesh strainer for draining. Having these ready ensures an efficient cooking process.
How do I prepare and cook Arroz Con Carne?
Start by prepping ingredients: chop veggies, rinse rice, and mix spices. Brown the beef in a Dutch oven, sauté vegetables, then add rice, broth, and spices. Simmer until tender, let it rest, and garnish with cilantro or lime. The whole process takes about 45-60 minutes for a delicious result.
Can I make Arroz Con Carne ahead of time?
Yes, prepare components like chopped vegetables, spice blends, and rinsed rice up to 24 hours in advance. You can also partially cook the beef and veggies for deeper flavor, then store in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain texture and taste, making it ideal for busy days.