Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips
A delectable dish that blends creamy queso with tender steak strips and flavorful basmati rice, perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties.
Ingredients
For the Rice Base
- 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed until water runs clear
- 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cube chicken bouillon, crumbled
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (optional) Optional ingredient
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
For the Steak
- 1 pound sirloin steak, sliced into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Montreal steak seasoning to taste
For Assembly
- white queso sauce, for drizzling
- fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- warm flour tortillas (optional) Optional for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. If using onions, add the finely chopped onion along with the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Toasting Rice
- Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes.
Adding Spices and Tomatoes
- Stir in the paprika and cumin, cooking for another 30 seconds. Then, add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and crumbled bouillon cube, stirring well to combine.
Cooking the Rice
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes.
Cooking Steak Strips
- Season the sirloin strips with Montreal steak seasoning. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the seasoned steak strips to the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side.
Fluffing the Rice
- Let the rice stand off heat for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Assembly
- Portion the rice into bowls, top with the steak strips, drizzling with white queso and garnishing with cilantro. Serve with warm flour tortillas.
Notes
For extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or more spices. Can substitute steak for chicken or shrimp. Use low-fat queso for a healthier option.