Description
Rice with Meatballs and Vegetables is a delicious and comforting one-pot meal packed with juicy meatballs, tender rice, and colorful vegetables. The flavors of garlic, paprika, and tomato-infused broth make every bite satisfying. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or meal prep, this dish is nutrient-rich, filling, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs
- 350g minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1 slice of bread, soaked in 2 tbsp milk
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Chopped parsley (to taste)
- Sea salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Flour (for coating)
- Olive oil (for frying)
For the Rice and Vegetables
- 400g rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 100g green beans, chopped
- 100g peas
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1–2 liters vegetable or poultry stock
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Sea salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs
- Soak the slice of bread in 2 tbsp of milk until soft.
- In a bowl, mix minced meat, soaked bread, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Shape into small meatballs and roll them lightly in flour.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry the meatballs until golden brown on all sides. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot.
- Add chopped onion, carrot, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in green beans and peas, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
3. Cook the Rice
- Stir in rice, tomato paste, and sweet paprika.
- Pour in 1-2 liters of stock, ensuring the rice is covered by about an inch.
- Add bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the Meatballs
- Gently nestle the fried meatballs into the rice mixture.
- Cover and cook for another 10-15 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and the meatballs are warmed through.
- Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or a fresh salad
Notes
- For a leaner version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef/pork.
- Brown rice can be used but will require additional cooking time.
- Add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for variety.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean