This Lebanese-inspired spiced rice with beef is a fragrant, comforting dish bursting with flavor. Tender basmati rice is cooked with aromatic spices, buttery goodness, and savory ground beef, then finished with fresh vegetables, toasted nuts, and bright parsley. Optional shredded chicken adds extra protein, making it a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Family of 6
15 minutes
40 minutes
Main
1 lb. lean ground beef
2 cups basmati rice, soaked and rinsed
1 onion, diced
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
Olive oil
4 tbsp. butter
2 tsp. salt, divided
2 tsp. black pepper, divided
2 tsp. 7-spice blend, divided
1 tsp. Ceylon cinnamon, divided
Frozen organic mixed vegetables (1–2 cups)
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Slivered almonds (or other nuts), toasted
Fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: shredded bone-in chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until about 90% done.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp 7-spice blend, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Mix and cook until the beef is no longer pink.
Add the washed rice and butter, then season with the remaining salt, black pepper, 7-spice blend, and cinnamon.
Mix and cook until the butter is fully melted.
Stir in the vegetables.
Pour in the broth.
Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer until the liquid is nearly absorbed.
Remove from heat immediately. Top with toasted nuts and fresh parsley.
Add shredded chicken on top if desired.
Serve with a Lebanese salad and enjoy!
