Middle EasternComfort FoodWeeknight DinnerPlan this recipeShare

Zira Meat and Vegetable Rice

Savor the rich flavors of spiced meat and vegetable rice.

6servings
1 hr
Medium
Worth the slow weekend prepMacros ready to logFeeds a hungry crew
Zira Meat and Vegetable Rice

About this recipe

Experience a delightful and aromatic dish where tender chunks of beef or lamb are cooked to perfection with a blend of spices including cumin, coriander, and cardamom. Combined with vibrant vegetables and fluffy basmati rice, this one-pot meal offers both comfort and exotic flavors, perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless beef or lamb, cut into small chunks
  • 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups water

Directions

  1. 1

    Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

  2. 2

    Sauté the onion until soft and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add the garlic and continue to sauté for 1 minute.

  4. 4

    Stir in the bell pepper and carrot, cooking for another 5 minutes.

  5. 5

    Add the meat, browning on all sides, approximately 10 minutes.

  6. 6

    Mix in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt to coat the meat and vegetables.

  7. 7

    Stir in the basmati rice and ensure it is covered with the spice mixture.

  8. 8

    Add the frozen peas and water, bringing the mixture to a boil.

  9. 9

    Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.

  10. 10

    Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Chef's tip

For additional flavor, use beef broth in place of water. Adjust salt to taste if using broth.

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