Border Beef and Rice Bake

Border Beef and Rice Bake Recipe - Mexican Cuisine

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

The Border Beef and Rice Bake is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the rich tastes of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of a baked casserole. This recipe is perfect for those who love the combination of savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and the fulfilling textures of rice and cheese. It's an ideal meal for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to bring a bit of warmth and spice to the table.

History

The origins of the Border Beef and Rice Bake can be traced back to the culinary traditions of the American Southwest, where Mexican and American cuisines have intermingled for centuries. This dish is a testament to the fusion of cultures, incorporating ingredients like taco seasoning, Mexican-style stewed tomatoes, and a Mexican-style cheese blend, which are staples in Mexican cooking, with the casserole form that is a hallmark of American comfort food.

Ingredients

2 packages (4-6 oz or 170 g each) of Spanish seasoned rice mix
1 lb (454 g) of ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 packet (1 oz or 28 g) of taco seasoning mix
6 corn tortillas, divided
2 cans (14-0.5 oz or 14 g each) of Mexican-style stewed tomatoes, divided
2 cups (8 oz or 227 g) of shredded Mexican-style cheese blend, divided
chopped fresh cilantro

How to prepare

Prepare the rice according to the package directions.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Add the beef, onion, and contents of the seasoning packet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.
Remove from heat and drain the fat.
Tear three corn tortillas into bite-size pieces and place them on the bottom of a non-metallic 13x9x2 inch dish.
Add half of the beef mixture, spreading it evenly. Top with half of the rice mixture, half of the tomatoes, and half of the cheese.
Repeat the layers, except for the cheese.
Cover and bake in a 400°F (204°C) oven for 15 minutes.
Uncover, top with the remaining cheese, and bake for 10 more minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
To serve, garnish with cilantro.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked black beans. You can also add corn or diced bell peppers to the layers for extra vegetables.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture in your Border Beef and Rice Bake, consider browning the ground beef thoroughly until it's nicely caramelized. This step adds depth to the dish's flavor. Also, layering the ingredients evenly ensures every bite is as delicious as the last. For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for beef and use low-fat cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Border Beef and Rice Bake with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and a fresh green salad to add freshness and balance to the meal. A cold beer or a glass of iced tea would complement the flavors beautifully.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the beef and onions together allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste of the dish. Baking the casserole uncovered for the last few minutes lets the cheese become golden and bubbly, adding a delightful texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Spanish seasoned rice mix is unavailable, use plain rice seasoned with a blend of cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. For a gluten-free version, ensure the taco seasoning and tortillas are gluten-free.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the beef and rice mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to assemble the bake. This can save time and make dinner preparation quicker and more convenient.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the baked casserole with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and slices of avocado for a pop of color and freshness. Serving it in a colorful dish can also enhance its visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp salad dressed with lime vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the casserole. For drinks, consider a citrusy pale ale or a refreshing margarita to complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed. Add a sprinkle of water or broth when reheating to prevent the rice from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of the Border Beef and Rice Bake contains approximately 500-600 calories. This makes it a hearty meal option, especially when served with a side of vegetables or a light salad.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Border Beef and Rice Bake contains approximately 45-55 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the Spanish seasoned rice mix and the tortillas. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, so this dish can be a good source of fuel for your day.

Fats

This dish contains about 20-30 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being the ground beef and the Mexican-style cheese blend. Using lean ground beef or substituting ground turkey can reduce the fat content. The fats contribute to the dish's richness and satiety factor.

Proteins

The Border Beef and Rice Bake is a protein-rich dish, offering approximately 25-35 grams of protein per serving. The ground beef and cheese are the primary protein sources, making this dish an excellent option for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C from the tomatoes, calcium and phosphorus from the cheese, and various B vitamins from the beef and rice. These nutrients support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include dairy (cheese) and gluten (tortillas and possibly the rice mix, depending on the brand). Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, the Border Beef and Rice Bake is a balanced dish that provides carbohydrates for energy, proteins for muscle maintenance, and fats for satiety. It also offers a variety of vitamins and minerals for overall health. However, those watching their calorie intake or with specific dietary restrictions should consider modifications to the recipe.

Summary

The Border Beef and Rice Bake is a versatile, flavorful dish that combines the best of Mexican and American cuisines. With its rich flavors, nutritional benefits, and the ability to customize it to suit various dietary needs, it's a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers to enjoy throughout the week, this casserole is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small border town. My family had always been big on food, and my grandmother was no exception. She was a wonderful cook, always whipping up delicious meals for us to enjoy.

One day, my grandmother invited a new neighbor over for dinner. She was a kind and friendly woman, and she brought with her a dish that I had never tasted before. It was a hearty casserole made with tender beef, fluffy rice, and a savory tomato sauce. The flavors were rich and comforting, and I couldn't get enough of it.

I asked my grandmother where she had learned to make such a delicious dish, and she told me that our neighbor had shared the recipe with her. I was fascinated by the idea that recipes could be passed down from one person to another, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

I spent the next few weeks watching my grandmother carefully as she prepared the casserole. She showed me how to brown the beef, cook the rice, and layer everything together in a baking dish. I took notes on every step, determined to master the recipe myself.

After several attempts, I finally managed to recreate the dish on my own. I proudly presented it to my family, and they all raved about how delicious it was. From that day on, Border Beef and Rice Bake became a staple in our household.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it even more delicious. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, and it has always been a hit. It brings me joy to see others enjoy the dish as much as I do.

I have come to realize that cooking is more than just following a recipe. It is a way to connect with others, to share a piece of yourself with those around you. Each dish tells a story, and each recipe carries with it memories of times shared with loved ones.

As I grow older, I find myself looking back on that day with my grandmother and our neighbor with fondness. It was the beginning of my culinary journey, a journey that has brought me so much joy and satisfaction over the years.

I am grateful for the knowledge that has been passed down to me, for the recipes that have been shared with me, and for the joy that cooking has brought into my life. And as I continue to cook and share my recipes with others, I hope to pass on the same love and joy that I have experienced to future generations. Cooking is a gift, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share it with others.