We just returned from the beach and I realized this morning that I pretty much had nothing quick to make my kiddos, and their friends, for lunch. What do I do, what do I do, what do I do?? I headed to the pantry to find some rice, because rice fills bellies and even the pickiest eaters normally eat it.
Okay, so here was my problem. I had only one box of Rice-A-Roni Spanish flavored rice, and one box of Near East Rice Pilaf. Hmmmm, we'll make it work!!
I'm making meatballs for dinner tonight, so I thought I'd use a tiny bit of ground beef to give the rice more substance.
If you want to make the "meal" my way, totally disregard the instructions on the back of the boxes.
Here's what you'll need:
1/4 lb ground beef
1 box Rice A Roni Spanish rice
1 box Near East Rice Pilaf
1/2 stick of salted butter
3 3/4 cups water
Here's what you'll do:
1) Add ground beef, butter, and both boxes of rice to a pan on medium-high heat.
2) Stir occasionally, until beef is browned.
3) Stir in seasoning packets from both boxes.
4) Add water, and stir; bring to a boil.
5) As soon as it begins boiling, turn heat to low, and cover.
6) Cook on low 15-20 minutes.
This concoction fed seven kids, and cost MAYBE $5 total. Every child cleared their plate, seriously!!
If the butter freaks you out, don't use it. You can totally adjust my recipe to suit your family. :-)
I hope you try it and like it!!
Emily
