Cantina Style Beef and Brown Rice

This 'Cantina Style Beef and Brown Rice' recipe prioritizes convenience without sacrificing flavor or your commitment to mindful eating. Using canned beef speeds preparation, but fresh, locally-sourced meats like Ground Beef, Stew Meat or even Ground Pork work equally well. This dish celebrates simple ingredients and adaptability, making it a responsible choice for those wary of processed foods and corporate influence Brown rice in a recipe is a great way to incorporate whole grains into your meals, offering a different texture and a nuttier flavor, as well as additional fiber and nutrients. Recipe Adaptation with Brown Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 can (12 oz) of canned beef, drained and shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or ghee (if needed for sautéing vegetables)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste
• Optional: Canned Corn
• 2 cups beef broth (or water, but broth will add more flavor)
• 1 cup brown rice

Instructions:

Prepare the Brown Rice: Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice or pasta, you'll start by cooking it separately.Use your InstantPot or In a medium saucepan, bring 2 1/2 cups of water or beef broth to a boil. Add the brown rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Prepare the Beef and Vegetables: While the rice is cooking, prepare the beef and vegetable mixture. Drain the canned beef and, if needed, shred or chop it into smaller pieces. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion is translucent.  If you are using raw meat, simply brown first. Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded canned beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic, warming it through. Then, incorporate the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring to combine. Simmer: Add about 1 cup of beef broth to the skillet to create a sauce, adjusting the amount as needed for your desired consistency. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook gently for about 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors, stirring occasionally. Combine Rice and Beef Mixture: Once both the rice and beef mixture are ready, you can either mix the brown rice into the skillet with the beef and sauce, allowing everything to heat through together, or serve the beef mixture over the cooked brown rice, depending on your preference. Garnish and Serve: Dish out servings of the brown rice and beef mixture, garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This version of the dish with brown rice offers a hearty, nutritious alternative to the traditional pasta-based recipe, making it perfect for those looking for whole grain options. Enjoy your wholesome meal!