Cook Carreteiro

Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Materials

• 500g beef (such as flank steak or leftover barbecue meat)
• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 bell pepper
• 2 tomatoes
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cups beef broth or water
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Safety

• Wash hands before and after handling raw meat.
• Use a sharp knife carefully to avoid cuts.
• Cook beef thoroughly to a safe internal temperature.
• Keep raw meat separate from other ingredients to prevent cross-contamination.
• Clean surfaces and utensils after contact with raw meat.

Steps

1. Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

   • Dice the beef into small cubes.
   • Chop the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and tomatoes.

   Check: All ingredients are chopped and ready. · Cutting board and knife are cleaned after handling raw meat.

2. Step 2: Sauté the aromatics

   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.

   Check: Onion is soft and translucent. · Garlic is fragrant but not burnt.

3. Step 3: Brown the beef

   • Add the diced beef to the pot.
   • Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned on all sides.

   Check: Beef is browned and no longer pink on the outside.

4. Step 4: Add vegetables

   • Add the chopped bell pepper and tomatoes to the pot.
   • Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften.

   Check: Vegetables are softened and well mixed with beef.

5. Step 5: Add rice and broth

   • Stir in the rice and mix well to coat with the flavors.
   • Pour in the beef broth or water.
   • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

   Check: Rice is evenly distributed in the pot. · Liquid covers the rice and meat mixture.

6. Step 6: Simmer the dish

   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
   • Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

   Check: Rice is tender and fully cooked. · No excess liquid remains in the pot.

7. Step 7: Finish and serve

   • Fluff the rice with a fork.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
   • Serve hot.

   Check: Dish is hot and ready to eat. · Parsley is added if using.