Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Cilantro Lime Rice
- Rinse the rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rice with 300ml water and 3g salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Cook the Aromatics
- While rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Brown the Ground Beef
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Season and Simmer the Beef
- Add cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne to the beef. Stir in tomato paste and water. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-6 minutes until the mixture thickens and flavors meld together.
Warm the Black Beans
- Warm the black beans in a small saucepan over medium heat with their liquid for 3-4 minutes. Drain before serving.
Assemble the Burrito Bowls
- To assemble each bowl, divide cilantro-lime rice among four bowls as the base. Top each with seasoned beef, black beans, corn kernels, diced tomatoes, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges.
Notes
- For meal prep, keep components separate in airtight containers. Rice and beans last 4 days refrigerated, while beef stays fresh for 3 days. Prepare fresh toppings like avocado and tomatoes just before serving to maintain optimal texture and color.
- Customize the heat level by adjusting cayenne pepper from 0.5g for mild to 2g for extra spicy. For a smokier flavor profile, add 2g of chipotle powder to the beef mixture.
- To achieve the best texture, avoid overcooking the riceāit should be fluffy and separate, not mushy. Let the beef mixture simmer long enough for the spices to bloom and create a rich, coating consistency that clings to the meat.
