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A bowl of Mediterranean rice pilaf with spices and nuts, beautifully presented.

Moussaka Beef Rice Pilaf

A comforting one-pot rice dinner inspired by Greek moussaka, featuring seasoned beef, tomatoes, and warm spices, perfect for a weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Ground beef Lean is nice, but any works; drain extra fat.
  • 1 medium Onion, diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp Tomato paste For deep, cooked tomato flavor.
  • 1 can Canned diced tomatoes Or crushed tomatoes if you prefer it saucier.
  • 1 cup Uncooked rice Long grain rice is the easiest here.
  • 2 cups Beef broth Or chicken broth in a pinch.
Seasoning and Toppings
  • 1 tsp Cinnamon A little pinch for warmth.
  • 1 tsp Oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper
  • 1 tsp Salt Good pinch.
  • 1 medium Eggplant, diced (optional) Adds moussaka vibe.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil For cooking.
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional) For topping.
  • 2 tbsp Parsley or dill For a fresh finish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat a big pot or deep skillet with a little olive oil. Add diced onion and cook for a few minutes until it starts to soften.
  2. Add the ground beef and break it up. Cook until it is no longer pink. If there is a lot of grease, spoon some out.
  3. Stir in the garlic for about 30 seconds. Add the tomato paste and stir it around for a minute to develop flavor.
  4. Add oregano, black pepper, a small pinch of cinnamon, and a good pinch of salt.
  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes and scrape up anything stuck to the bottom. Stir in uncooked rice to coat it with flavor.
  6. Add broth, stir, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cover, turn down the heat, and cook until the rice is tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  7. Turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and top with yogurt and parsley.

Notes

Use a heavy bottom pot to prevent scorching. Keep the simmer gentle. Let the rice rest to improve texture.