We’ve always been fans of comforting meals that pack a punch, and our Ground Lamb Rice Recipe is no exception. It’s a flavorful twist on classic rice dishes, blending tender ground lamb with aromatic spices for a satisfying dinner that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Hailing from hearty Mediterranean traditions, this easy recipe showcases how simple ingredients can create something truly special. We’re excited to share our take, perfect for busy weeknights when you want bold taste without the fuss.
Ingredients
In our Ground Lamb Rice Recipe, we select high-quality ingredients that blend Mediterranean flavors for a simple yet aromatic dish. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they are used, with precise measurements and prep notes to ensure accuracy and ease.
- Ground Lamb: 1 pound, lean and fresh, as the star protein that infuses rich, savory depth into every bite.
- Onion: 1 medium, finely diced, to create a fragrant base that enhances the overall aroma.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for adding a pungent kick that complements the lamb’s earthiness.
- Bell Pepper: 1 large, red, chopped, to introduce a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- Rice: 2 cups, long-grain basmati, rinsed until water runs clear, as it absorbs the spices and becomes fluffy.
- Tomato: 2 medium, diced, to provide juicy acidity that balances the richness.
- Spices: 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon paprika, freshly ground for bold, warming notes that evoke Mediterranean roots.
- Chicken Broth: 2 cups, low-sodium, to cook the rice and lamb mixture for added moisture and flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: ¼ cup cilantro, chopped, and 2 tablespoons mint, torn, added at the end for a fresh, herbaceous finish that elevates the dish’s sensory appeal.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our flavorful Ground Lamb Rice Recipe, let’s gather the essential equipment. This setup ensures smooth cooking and helps us achieve that perfect blend of tender ground lamb and aromatic spices with minimal effort.
We recommend the following tools, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: A sturdy, 12-inch large skillet with a lid is ideal for browning the ground lamb and simmering the rice to perfection. We prefer one with high sides to contain splatters and promote even cooking.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: Use a durable cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife for efficiently dicing onions, mincing garlic, and chopping bell peppers. In our experience, this combo speeds up prep and ensures uniform pieces for better flavor distribution.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success, so opt for a set of measuring cups and spoons to portion out rice, spices, and broth precisely.
- Wooden Spatula or Spoon: A heat-resistant wooden spatula works wonders for stirring the ingredients without scratching your cookware, allowing us to mix the ground lamb and spices seamlessly.
- Fine-Mesh Strainer: If rinsing the basmati rice, a fine-mesh strainer helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains that complement the lamb’s richness.
With these items ready, we’re set to move forward and transform our high-quality ingredients into a delicious, Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Directions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to prepare our flavorful Ground Lamb Rice, ensuring a harmonious blend of spices and textures for a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we start by prepping our ingredients to ensure everything is ready for seamless cooking. Begin by rinsing 1 cup of long-grain basmati rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear; this removes excess starch for fluffy results. Next, finely dice 1 medium onion and mince 2 garlic cloves for a pungent aroma that enhances the dish’s depth. Chop 1 red bell pepper into small pieces and measure out 1 pound of lean ground lamb, along with 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon paprika for the spice blend that delivers warm, earthy flavors. Open and drain 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, and have 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth measured out. Finally, roughly chop fresh herbs like cilantro and mint for a vibrant, herbaceous finish—about ¼ cup of each will add a refreshing pop to our final dish.
Cook the Ground Lamb
With ingredients prepped, we move to browning the lamb to build a rich, savory base. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the 1 pound of ground lamb, breaking it up with a wooden spatula as it sizzles, and cook for 5-7 minutes until it’s evenly browned and releases a mouthwatering, caramelized aroma. Stir in the finely diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped red bell pepper, sautéing for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and their sweet, tangy scents mingle with the lamb’s robust flavors. Season with 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon paprika, stirring constantly to coat everything evenly and release the spices’ warm, intoxicating fragrance that will make your kitchen smell irresistible.
Add and Cook the Rice
We incorporate the rice to absorb the flavorful juices and create a hearty, textured dish. Add the rinsed 1 cup of basmati rice to the skillet, stirring it into the lamb mixture for 1-2 minutes until the grains turn slightly translucent and take on a nutty scent. Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid, yielding fluffy grains infused with the lamb’s savory essence and a subtle spice kick that evokes Mediterranean warmth.
Assemble and Serve
To finish, we bring it all together for a visually appealing and tasty presentation. Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to steam perfectly. Fluff the mixture with a wooden spatula, then gently fold in the chopped cilantro and mint for a burst of fresh, herbaceous brightness that contrasts the rich lamb. Serve immediately in bowls, garnishing with extra herbs if desired, to enjoy the tender lamb’s juicy texture alongside the fluffy rice’s subtle crunch, creating a comforting, aromatic meal that highlights our Mediterranean roots.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Ground Lamb Rice Recipe even more convenient for busy schedules, we recommend preparing components in advance while preserving the dish’s aromatic spices and tender textures. This approach allows us to save time without compromising the vibrant Mediterranean flavors of cumin, cinnamon, and fresh herbs.
Preparing Ingredients Ahead
We can streamline the process by prepping key elements up to 24 hours in advance:
- Rinse and measure the rice: Wash 1 cup of basmati rice under cold water until clear, then drain and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Chop vegetables: Dice 1 medium onion, mince 2 garlic cloves, and chop 1 red bell pepper. Place them in separate sealed bags or containers to prevent sogginess.
- Mix spices: Combine 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon paprika in a small bowl or jar for quick access.
Cooking the Lamb Mixture in Advance
For a head start on the main components, we suggest browning the ground lamb and vegetables ahead of time:
- In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of ground lamb over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink, then drain excess fat.
- Add the pre-chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the spice blend and let the mixture cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months to lock in the rich, savory aromas.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures our Ground Lamb Rice Recipe retains its hearty appeal:
- Refrigeration: Store the fully assembled dish (after simmering) in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool first to maintain the fluffy rice texture.
- Freezing: If freezing the entire recipe, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Avoid overcooking during reheating to preserve the tender lamb and vibrant herb flavors. |
By following these steps, we ensure every bite of our Ground Lamb Rice Recipe delivers the same comforting, aromatic experience as if freshly made.
Conclusion
We’ve explored how our Ground Lamb Rice Recipe brings Mediterranean flavors to your table with ease. It’s a versatile dish that fits into busy lives while delivering bold taste and comfort.
We encourage you to tweak it with your favorite herbs or serve it alongside fresh salads for a complete meal. Try it tonight—it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ground Lamb Rice Recipe?
This recipe is a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender ground lamb mixed with aromatic spices and basmati rice. It’s simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and delivers a comforting, hearty meal with ingredients like onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
What ingredients are needed for Ground Lamb Rice?
You’ll need lean ground lamb, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped red bell pepper, basmati rice, diced tomatoes, spices like cumin, cinnamon, and paprika, low-sodium chicken broth, and fresh herbs such as cilantro and mint. All ingredients are listed with precise measurements for easy prep.
What equipment is required to make this recipe?
Essential tools include a large skillet or Dutch oven for cooking, a cutting board and chef’s knife for chopping, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a wooden spatula for stirring, and a fine-mesh strainer for rinsing rice. These ensure a smooth and efficient process.
How do I prepare Ground Lamb Rice?
Start by rinsing the rice and chopping veggies. Brown the ground lamb, sauté onions, garlic, and peppers, then add rice, tomatoes, broth, and spices. Simmer until rice is tender, fluff it, and top with fresh herbs. The whole process takes about 30-40 minutes for a delicious result.
Can I make Ground Lamb Rice ahead of time?
Yes, prepare components like rinsing rice, chopping veggies, and mixing spices up to 24 hours in advance. Brown the lamb and veggies ahead too, then store in the fridge. This keeps flavors fresh and makes mealtime quicker without losing any taste.
How should I store Ground Lamb Rice?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture and flavor.
Is Ground Lamb Rice a healthy option?
Yes, it’s nutritious with lean ground lamb for protein, veggies for vitamins, and whole grains from basmati rice. Using low-sodium broth keeps sodium in check, and spices add antioxidants. It’s a balanced meal, but portion control helps manage calories.