Beef Taco Bowl with Black Beans and Rice

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef 6 oz
• Black beans 1/2 cup
• Brown rice 1 cup
• Salsa 1/4 cup
• Shredded lettuce 1/2 cup
• Olive oil 1 tbsp
• Taco seasoning 1 tbsp
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Method

1. Prepare the brown rice. If you haven't cooked the brown rice yet, start by rinsing 1/2 cup of dry brown rice under cold water. In a medium pot, add the rice and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 40-45 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside. (If you have pre-cooked rice, you can skip this step.)
   Tip: Cooking rice ahead of time or using leftover rice will save you time.
2. Cook the lean ground beef. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if needed.
   Tip: Breaking the meat into small pieces helps it cook evenly.
3. Add taco seasoning. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning over the cooked beef. Stir well to evenly coat the meat with the spices. Add a splash of water (about 2 tablespoons) to help the seasoning distribute and create a bit of sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is well seasoned and the sauce thickens slightly.
   Tip: If you don’t have taco seasoning, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
4. Warm the black beans. In a small saucepan, add the rinsed and drained black beans. Warm them over low-medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can add a pinch of salt or a small splash of water if they seem dry.
   Tip: Warming the beans enhances their flavor and texture.
5. Assemble the taco bowls. Divide the cooked brown rice evenly between two bowls. Top each bowl with half of the seasoned ground beef, warm black beans, 2 tablespoons of salsa, and 1/4 cup of shredded lettuce.
   Tip: Add extra salsa or a squeeze of lime for added freshness.
6. Serve and enjoy. Your beef taco bowls are ready to serve! Enjoy warm as a nutritious and delicious meal.
   Tip: Pair with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream if you like.

Pro tips

• Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and keep the dish healthier.
• Rinse canned black beans well to reduce sodium and improve taste.
• Cook rice in advance to speed up meal preparation.