Spicy Beef with Coconut Rice

Spicy Beef with Coconut Rice

6 servings
Spicy beef with coconut rice made fast and easy, bold flavors, fresh herbs, and creamy coconut rice for the perfect weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • persian cucumbers
    3
  • avocado oil
    2 tbsp
  • ground beef
    1 ½ lb
  • garlic cloves

    finely chopped

    8
  • red fresno chiles

    finely sliced

    2
  • sambal oelek
    1 tbsp
  • red pepper flakes

    optional

    ½ tsp
  • shallot

    thinly sliced

    1
  • rice wine vinegar
    2 tbsp
  • soy sauce
    2 tbsp
  • balsamic vinegar
    1 tbsp
  • brown sugar
    1 tsp
  • kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • fresh herbs

    mint, basil, scallions and cilantro

    1 c
  • lime wedges
  • jasmine rice
    2 c
  • water
    2 ½ c
  • coconut milk
    1 c
  • white sugar
    1 tsp
  • kosher salt
    1 tsp
  • lime

    zested and juiced

    1

Directions

  1. 1

    Smash the cucumbers with a rolling pin or heavy pot until cracked, then tear into bite size pieces. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Heat the oil in a large cast iron skillet over high heat. Add the beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook undisturbed until deeply browned on one side, about 5 minutes. Break up the meat and continue cooking until fully browned, another 5 to 7 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add the garlic, Fresno chiles, sambal oelek, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.

  4. 4

    Add the shallot and cucumbers and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.

  5. 5

    Stir in the balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Cook until the sauce reduces slightly, 3 to 4 minutes. Season to taste. Serve the spicy beef over coconut rice and top with fresh herbs and lime wedges.

To make the coconut rice:

  1. 1

    In a saucepan, combine the water, coconut milk, sugar, and salt and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the rice, cover, and cook on low heat for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let steam, covered, for 5 to 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in the lime zest and juice.

Spicy Beef with Coconut Rice

Spicy Beef with Coconut Rice

5.0(17)45 min6 servings663 cal

Ratings & Reviews

0.0/ 5
Exceptional

Based on 17 ratings

whatsgabycooking.com
5.0(17 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Savor the Flavor: Easy Spicy Beef with Creamy Coconut Rice

Looking for a delicious, fast and easy weeknight dinner that packs a punch of flavor? Our Spicy Beef with Coconut Rice is the answer! This incredible dish brings together tender, perfectly seasoned spicy ground beef with the dreamy, aromatic sweetness of creamy coconut rice, creating a meal that's both comforting and exciting. Ready in just 45 minutes, it's perfect for busy evenings when you crave something special without the fuss.

What makes this spicy beef recipe truly shine is the dynamic interplay of flavors. The lean ground beef is infused with aromatic garlic, fiery fresno chiles, and a kick from sambal oelek, balanced by the tang of vinegars and a touch of brown sugar. This savory, spicy mixture is beautifully complemented by the cooling, bright crunch of fresh cucumber and an abundance of fresh herbs like mint, basil, scallions, and cilantro. But the true hero? The fluffy, subtly sweet, and fragrant coconut rice, which provides the perfect counterpoint to the bold spice.

Tips for the Perfect Spicy Beef with Coconut Rice

  • Customize the Spice: Love heat? Feel free to add the optional red pepper flakes or a little extra sambal oelek. Prefer it milder? Reduce the chiles and sambal. You're the chef!
  • Herb Power: Don't skimp on the fresh herbs! They add an incredible burst of freshness and aroma that brightens the entire dish and truly elevates the experience.
  • Citrus Brightness: A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the finished dish is non-negotiable. It adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness and ties all the flavors together beautifully.

This dish is incredibly versatile. While fantastic on its own, consider serving it with a side of steamed greens like bok choy or broccoli for added nutrition. It's an unforgettable meal that brings bold, restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions