This Beef Rice Stew is a hearty dish with tender beef pieces cooked with rice and flavorful broth. It’s warm, filling, and perfect for a cozy meal on a busy day.
I like how the rice makes the stew extra thick and comforting. Sometimes I add a splash of hot sauce for a little extra kick—I call it my secret weapon!
When serving, I top it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors. It’s simple, tasty, and everyone leaves the table happy.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend boneless stew beef for tenderness. Keep in mind, if you’re in a pinch, ground beef works but might change the stew’s texture. Always brown the beef well for richer flavor.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is best here. For a nuttier taste, try jasmine rice. If you’re out, brown rice can be used, but it needs more cooking time and liquid adjustment.
Onions and Garlic: These provide depth. I like to sauté them until golden for flavor. Use shallots or garlic powder if fresh isn’t available, but fresh always shines through more.
Broth and Tomatoes: Use beef broth for richness. Canned diced tomatoes add acidity and sweetness. If fresh tomatoes are available, they can be chopped and added for a fresher taste.
How do I cook the rice properly in the stew?
Cook the rice in the stew’s liquid until tender, about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If you prefer separate rice, cook it separately and add it just before serving for a fluffy texture.
How to Make Beef Rice Stew?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meat and Rice
- 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into chunks
- 1 cup long-grain rice
Vegetables and Liquids
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
15 minutes prep + 1 hour cooking = approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the ingredients
Chop the onion and carrots. Mince garlic. Measure out rice and broth. Cut beef into bite-sized pieces.
2. Brown the beef
Heat oil in a large pot. Brown beef pieces for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides.
3. Cook vegetables
Add chopped onion and carrots to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
4. Add garlic and seasonings
Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute to release flavors.
5. Pour in broth and simmer
Add beef broth. Bring to a boil, then lower heat. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour until beef is tender.
6. Add rice and finish
Stir in rice. Cover and cook for another 15 minutes until rice is cooked and stew thickens. Serve warm.
