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Mediterranean Beef Bowls Recipe

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Mediterranean Beef Bowls combine spiced ground beef with fresh vegetables, whole grains, and flavorful sauces like harissa oil and tahini dressing for a vibrant, wholesome meal perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Harissa Oil (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons harissa paste
  • 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper flakes

Ground Beef and Vegetables

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 large green bell pepper, diced
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baharat
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked Spanish paprika

Toppings and Garnishes

  • 3 Roma tomatoes, diced
  • 3 Persian cucumbers, diced
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • 3 radishes, sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
  • Castelvetrano or kalamata olives, pitted
  • 2 cups cooked whole grains (bulgur, farro, barley, or brown rice), warmed
  • Tahini Sauce or Creamy Feta Dressing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Harissa Oil (optional): In a small skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of harissa paste and 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper flakes, stirring to combine. Set aside to cool; this infused oil will add a spicy, aromatic boost to your bowls.
  2. Cook the Vegetables: Heat 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, and diced green bell pepper. Season with a generous pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook, stirring regularly, until the vegetables are fragrant and softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 3 tablespoons tomato paste and 1/4 cup water, mixing well to combine.
  3. Cook the Ground Beef: Add 1 1/2 pounds of lean ground beef to the pan. Season with a pinch of kosher salt. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook, stirring frequently, until browned, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. If using fattier beef, drain any excess fat at this point. Stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons baharat and 1/2 teaspoon smoked Spanish paprika. Continue cooking a few more minutes until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat.
  4. Prepare the Toppings: In a bowl, toss the diced Roma tomatoes and Persian cucumbers with a pinch of kosher salt and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to enhance their natural flavors and add freshness.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Divide 2 cups of your warmed cooked whole grains evenly among six serving bowls. Top each bowl with a generous portion of the spiced ground beef mixture. Drizzle some of the prepared harissa oil over the top, if using, followed by a spoonful of tahini sauce or creamy feta dressing. Garnish with the tomato and cucumber mixture, sliced radishes, chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, and pitted Castelvetrano or kalamata olives. Serve any remaining sauces, vegetables, and olives alongside for additional flavor customization.

Notes

  • Harissa oil is optional but adds a delightful smoky heat and complexity to the dish.
  • If you prefer, substitute the ground beef with ground lamb for a more traditional Mediterranean flavor.
  • Whole grains like bulgur, farro, barley, or brown rice work equally well; choose your favorite based on texture preference.
  • Adjust the amount of baharat and paprika to taste if you prefer a milder or spicier profile.
  • Tahini sauce can be replaced with creamy feta dressing for a tangier flavor.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure the grains used are gluten-free options such as rice or certified gluten-free grains.

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/mediterranean-beef-bowls-recipe/