Ingredients
Preparing this dish requires a selection of straightforward ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each component adds to the story of this bowl, creating layers of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
If you fancy a bit of a twist, substitute the ground beef with turkey for a lighter version. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cinnamon—a little nod to my namesake—to the beef as it cooks for a subtle warmth.
Instructions
Cooking is a journey, and each step brings you closer to a delicious destination. Here’s how you can create your ground beef cottage cheese bowl, filled with love and flavor:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon—a staple in my kitchen for its gentle touch on flavors. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in the oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. These spices remind me of the fragrant herbs my mum used to grow in small pots on our windowsill.
- Once the beef is seasoned, add the chopped spinach. Cook until it wilts, about 2 minutes. This step always reminds me of the vibrant green fields surrounding our Devon cottage.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cottage cheese until smooth. This creamy texture is what binds the dish together, much like the stories shared during family meals.
- Combine the cooked brown rice and the beef mixture in a large bowl. Stir in the cottage cheese until everything is well mixed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this delightful bowl.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
