Thai rice with spicy beef sauce

Thai Rice with Spicy Beef Sauce

This Thai rice recipe with spicy beef sauce is an explosion of flavors and textures that will bring a touch of exoticism to your kitchen. A perfect combination of fluffy, tender rice and flavorful beef, this dish is not only delicious but also an excellent choice for a family meal or a special occasion.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the rice:
- 250 g Thai rice (or basmati)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 500 ml water
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of pepper
- A dash of saffron (optional)

For the beef:
- 600 g beef (preferably fillet or tenderloin)
- 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato sauce or paste
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2-3 garlic cloves, sliced
- Spices: four-color pepper, paprika, curry, nutmeg, allspice, bay leaf, oregano, marjoram, rosemary, salt, olive oil, 2-3 tablespoons white wine

For the spicy flavor (optional):
- 1 chili pepper, finely chopped (for those who prefer spicy food)

Recipe Story

Thai rice is renowned for its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors. This recipe is inspired by culinary traditions that combine simple yet highly flavorful ingredients, bringing together diverse influences. Marinated in spices and served alongside crunchy vegetables, this main dish becomes a true delicacy, perfect for enjoying with loved ones.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Rice
Start by washing the rice in several cold waters to remove excess starch. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy, non-sticky rice.
In a large skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the finely chopped onion and garlic, stirring constantly until they become translucent.
Add the washed rice and gently stir to coat it with the fats. Then, add 500 ml of water and the spices: salt, pepper, and a dash of saffron. Important: do not stir after the water has started boiling to avoid breaking the rice.
Let the rice simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes until it absorbs all the water and becomes creamy.

2. Marinating the Beef
Meanwhile, slice the beef into thin strips (about 2 cm x 0.5 mm). In a bowl, add all your favorite spices, 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, and white wine.
Place the meat in the marinade along with the sliced onion and garlic, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for a few hours, ideally overnight. This will intensify the flavors, making the meat more tender and tasty.

3. Cooking the Beef
After marinating, remove the beef and place it in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the meat, stirring constantly, until it begins to brown.
Add a large glass of water in which you have diluted 2-3 tablespoons of tomato sauce or paste and a splash of soy sauce. Cover the skillet and let the sauce reduce slowly, stirring occasionally.

4. Adding the Vegetables
Five minutes before turning off the heat, add the sliced carrot and red bell pepper. These vegetables should remain al dente to provide a pleasant contrast with the tender meat.

5. Serving
Plate the rice, then pour the beef sauce over it. If you like spicy food, you can add the finely chopped chili pepper. This dish can be served with a fresh salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Useful Tips

- For more flavorful rice: You can add a few bay leaves or a splash of lemon juice to the water while boiling.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of meat, such as chicken or pork, or add other vegetables like zucchini or broccoli.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a refreshing drink, such as jasmine tea or a tropical cocktail.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This recipe offers a healthy balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. A serving contains approximately 500-600 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sauces used. Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, while rice provides essential carbohydrates for energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use brown rice? Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time. Check the instructions on the package.
- How can I make the dish less spicy? Stop adding chili peppers and soy sauce, which can add a bit of intensity.

In conclusion, this Thai rice recipe with spicy beef sauce is not only a delicious dish but also an opportunity to experiment with flavors and textures. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it will surely be appreciated by everyone who enjoys it. So, don’t hesitate and start your culinary adventure!