Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Rice Base (15 minutes)
- Rinse jasmine rice until water runs clear
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice, chicken broth, and bay leaf
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes
- Remove from heat and let stand 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork
- Remove bay leaf and stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, and ½ teaspoon salt
Cook the Protein (10 minutes)
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with spatula, until browned (about 6-8 minutes)
- Drain excess fat if necessary
- Add taco seasoning and beef broth, stir to combine
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes until liquid is mostly absorbed and meat is well-seasoned
Prepare Fresh Ingredients (10 minutes)
- While meat and rice cook, dice tomatoes and place in small bowl
- Shred lettuce and place in separate bowl
- Slice avocado just before serving to prevent browning
- Drain and rinse black beans
- Grate cheese if using block cheese
- Prepare any other desired toppings
Assemble the Bowls (5 minutes)
- Divide cilantro-lime rice among 4 serving bowls
- Top each bowl with seasoned ground beef
- Arrange remaining ingredients in sections around the bowl: black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce
- Add avocado slices, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and jalapeño slices if desired
- Serve immediately with lime wedges and salsa verde on the side
Notes
Recipe Pros
- Quick 40-minute total preparation and cooking time
- Highly customizable for different dietary preferences and restrictions
- Perfect for meal prep - components store well separately for up to 5 days
- Balanced nutrition with protein, carbs, healthy fats, and vegetables
- Kid-friendly and easily adaptable for different spice levels
- Uses common pantry ingredients and fresh produce
- More filling and less messy than traditional tacos
- Great for feeding a crowd or family with varying tastes
- Naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free seasonings
Recipe Cons
- Requires multiple components and prep bowls, creating more dishes
- Fresh ingredients like avocado and lettuce don't store well once assembled
- Can become soggy if not assembled properly or stored incorrectly
- Higher calorie count may not suit all dietary goals
- Requires planning ahead for best results with cilantro-lime rice
- Some ingredients may be expensive depending on season and location
- Not suitable for those with dairy allergies without modifications