Krissa’s Tamale Rice

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes                   Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon (15 mL) olive oil
1 pound (450 grams) of lean ground meat (sirloin, turkey, chicken, pork, Italian sausage)

1 medium onion, fine dice
1 red pepper, fine dice
1 poblano pepper (or green pepper), fine dice
1 jalapeno pepper (fresh or pickled), finely chopped (optional)
¾ cup (185 mL) fresh or frozen corn
3/4 cup (185 mL) salsa (mild, medium, or hot)

2 cups of cooked rice (long-grain)
Salt, pepper, hot spices (optional)
1 cup (250 mL) shredded cheddar cheese
2-3 tablespoons (20-45 mL) chopped fresh cilantro
¼ cup (60 mL) chopped green onions

Garnish:  Extra green onions and cilantro; chopped fresh tomatoes; grated cheddar  … and lots of Tortilla chips

Method:

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add your choice of ground meat, gently breaking up large chunks. Gently saute until it is starting to brown – 10 minutes. Season with a little salt, pepper or hot spices.
2. Add chopped onions and peppers; continue to saute until soft and fragrant – 5-10 minutes. Stir in corn and salsa. Heat through.
3. Gently fold in cooked rice and heat through. Add some salt, pepper, or extra hot spices to taste.
4. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese, cilantro, and green onions. Heat through.
5. Sprinkle extra cheese and garnishes on each serving.

   Serving Suggestion:    Tortilla chips and Margaritas!!