Simmering Magic: Homemade Mexican Beef and Rice Soup Recipe

Crafting a hearty Mexican beef and rice soup brings comfort right to your kitchen table.

Fragrant spices dance through tender meat and soft grains, creating a warming embrace on chilly evenings.

Generations of home cooks have perfected this traditional recipe, passing down secrets from abuela to daughter.

Rich broth captures the essence of home-style cooking with bold, satisfying flavors.

Chunks of beef mingle with fluffy rice, promising a meal that fills both stomach and soul.

Each spoonful tells a story of Mexican culinary heritage.

Jump into this delicious adventure and let your taste buds celebrate.

What Makes Mexican Beef and Rice Soup Stand Out

• Quick Mexican Beef and Rice Soup's Irresistible Charm
• Prepare this hearty soup with minimal cooking skills, using simple ingredients and straightforward steps that even beginner cooks can master confidently.
• Personalize the soup with various toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado, transforming each serving into a unique culinary experience that suits individual tastes.
• Combine protein-rich ground beef, fiber-filled beans, and nutrient-dense vegetables in one delicious pot, creating a balanced meal that satisfies hunger and provides essential nutrients.

Ingredients for Mexican Beef and Rice Soup

• Ground Beef: Hearty protein that provides the base for the soup's rich flavor.
• Rice: Filling grain that adds substance and texture to the soup.
• Beef Broth: Flavorful liquid that creates the soup's foundation.

• Onion, Bell Pepper, Jalapeño: Fresh vegetables that add depth and spicy kick.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Diced Tomatoes: Tangy base that adds moisture and acidity to the soup.

• Cumin, Chili Powder, Smoked Paprika, Dried Oregano: Spice blend that gives the soup its Mexican-inspired flavor.
• Black Beans, Frozen Corn: Protein-rich and sweet additions that complement the soup.
• Lime Juice, Cilantro: Fresh ingredients that brighten the soup's taste.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing flavors.

• Shredded Cheese, Sour Cream, Sliced Avocado, Tortilla Strips, Lime Wedges: Customizable garnishes that add extra texture and flavor.

Cooking Instructions for Beef and Rice Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Add ground beef and cook until completely browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.

Drain off any excess fat from the meat.

Step 2: Prepare Aromatic Vegetables

• Diced onion
• Chopped bell pepper
• Minced jalapeño (optional)

Sauté the vegetables for 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent.

Toss in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma.

Step 3: Build Flavor Base

• Ground cumin
• Chili powder
• Smoked paprika
• Dried oregano

Stir spices and cook for one minute to enhance their flavors.

Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice and mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Introduce Liquid and Rice

Pour beef broth and water into the pot.

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.

Add rice, reduce heat to low, and let the soup simmer for approximately 15 minutes until rice becomes tender.

Step 5: Add Beans and Corn

• Black beans
• Frozen corn

Continue simmering for 5 more minutes to heat beans and corn completely.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.

Squeeze fresh lime juice and sprinkle chopped cilantro into the soup.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle soup into serving bowls.

Top with optional garnishes.

Best Practices for Flavorful Beef and Rice Soup

• Toast spices before adding liquid to intensify their deep, rich taste and create a more complex flavor profile.
• Add rice later in the cooking process to maintain its texture and prevent overcooking, ensuring each grain remains perfectly separate.
• Adjust jalapeño and chili powder levels to match your heat tolerance, removing seeds for milder flavor or adding extra for more kick.
• Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles or shredded chicken for versatile meal options that suit different dietary preferences.
• Make extra soup and freeze in portion-sized containers for convenient, ready-to-heat meals during busy weeknights.

Storage and Heating Tips for Beef and Rice Soup

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cool the soup completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth and maintain fresh flavor.
• Transfer soup to freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-inch space for expansion. Freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals. Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly and prevent cold spots.
• Pour soup into a pot, add a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Pair This Soup with These Comfort Sides

• Pair with Zesty Margarita: Craft a classic lime margarita with tequila, triple sec, and fresh lime juice to complement the soup's tangy Mexican flavors and spicy undertones.
• Enhance with Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve warm, salted tortilla chips alongside the soup for a crunchy texture contrast and authentic Mexican street food experience.
• Match with Fresh Cabbage Slaw: Prepare a light, citrusy cabbage slaw with lime, cilantro, and a touch of jalapeño to provide a refreshing and bright side that balances the hearty soup.
• Add Creamy Avocado Crema: Blend ripe avocados with sour cream, lime juice, and a pinch of salt to create a smooth, cooling sauce that cuts through the soup's robust spices.

Mix Up Your Beef and Rice Soup Game

• Vegetarian Swap: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms for a hearty meat-free version that maintains the soup's rich flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice or chopped zucchini to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping the soup's Mexican-inspired essence.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, particularly checking broth and spice labels to make the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Spicy Kick Version: Increase jalapeño quantity or add diced chipotle peppers for those wanting an extra heat level in their Mexican-style soup.

FAQs

• Is this soup spicy?

The soup has a mild to moderate heat level from jalapeños and spices like chili powder. You can easily adjust the spiciness by reducing or omitting the jalapeño or using less chili powder.

• Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even shredded chicken for a variation in flavor and protein.

• Do I need to pre-cook the rice?

No, the rice will cook directly in the soup broth. Just add uncooked rice and let it simmer until tender, which takes about 15 minutes.

• What if I don't have fresh cilantro?

If fresh cilantro isn’t available, you can skip it or use dried cilantro. The soup will still taste delicious, though fresh cilantro adds a bright, fresh flavor.

Mexican Beef and Rice Soup Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty Mexican Beef and Rice Soup delivers a comforting explosion of spices and tender meat simmered to perfection. Warm, rich flavors invite you to savor each spoonful of this soul-satisfying culinary adventure.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 bell pepper (diced (any color))
• 1 jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped (optional for extra heat))
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup frozen corn

Spices, Liquids, and Other Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup long-grain white rice
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Optional Toppings:

• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream
• Sliced avocado
• Tortilla strips or chips
• Extra lime wedges

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Instructions

1. Sear the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until thoroughly browned, carefully breaking up the meat and eliminating excess fat.
2. Incorporate diced onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños into the pot, sautéing for approximately 5 minutes until vegetables become translucent and tender.
3. Introduce minced garlic and aromatic spices, including cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano, toasting them briefly to enhance their flavors.
4. Pour in diced tomatoes with their natural juices, stirring to create a cohesive mixture.
5. Add beef broth and water, bringing the liquid to a rolling boil before gently introducing rice and reducing heat to a gentle simmer.
6. Allow the soup to cook for roughly 15 minutes, or until rice reaches a tender consistency.
7. Fold in black beans and frozen corn, continuing to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to thoroughly warm the ingredients.
8. Elevate the soup’s flavor profile by seasoning with salt and pepper, then brighten with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro.
9. Serve piping hot, garnishing with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, crispy tortilla strips, or extra lime wedges.

Notes

• Drain beef thoroughly to prevent greasy soup and ensure a cleaner, lighter flavor profile.
• Choose lean ground beef (90/10) for healthier version without compromising rich taste.
• Customize heat levels by adjusting jalapeño quantity or using milder pepper varieties.
• Substitute brown rice for white rice to boost nutritional value and add nutty undertone.
• Use low-sodium broth to control salt content and allow personal seasoning preferences.
• Freeze leftover soup in airtight containers for convenient meal prep up to 3 months.
• Enhance protein content by adding extra beans or shredded rotisserie chicken.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 7 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg