Budget-Friendly Savory Beef and Veggie Rice Bowl

• 1 cup white long-grain rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef (80-85% lean)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (corn, peas, carrots, green beans)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• Optional garnish: sliced green onions or chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then combine it with 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
2. While the rice cooks, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break apart with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
5. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, soy sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are heated through and starting to soften.
6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Divide the rice evenly into four bowls.
7. Spoon the beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the rice in each bowl.
8. Garnish with sliced green onions or chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Chef tips

• Use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian option.
• If fresh vegetables are on sale, feel free to substitute frozen mixed veggies with diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami; low-sodium soy sauce can be used to reduce salt content.
• To save time, use a rice cooker or instant pot for cooking the rice efficiently.