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Layered Taco Bowl

This dish features seasoned ground meat cooked with spices until browned, combined with tender rice and fresh garnishes. It has a vibrant mix of textures, including crispy edges, juicy fillings, and crunchy toppings, assembled in a bowl for a colorful, layered presentation.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey or plant-based meat substitute
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice rinsed
  • 2 cups water or chicken broth
  • Fresh cilantro chopped, for topping
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
  • 1 cup crisp lettuce or cabbage shredded for crunch
  • 1 avocado ripe avocado sliced for garnish
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Cooking spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the ground meat and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Sprinkle with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine. Set aside.
  2. While the meat cooks, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water (or broth) in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and fluffy, about 15 minutes.
  3. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and transfer it to serving bowls as a base layer, creating a vibrant background for the toppings.
  4. Top the rice in each bowl with the seasoned ground meat, distributing evenly. Add shredded lettuce or cabbage for crunch, then sprinkle with shredded cheese and halved cherry tomatoes for brightness.
  5. Add slices of ripe avocado on top, and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for fresh aroma. Feel free to squeeze extra lime or hot sauce for a tangy kick.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy the layered textures — crispy, juicy, tender — in every satisfying bite.

Notes

Feel free to customize with additional toppings like sour cream, pickled jalapeños, or sliced radishes for extra flavor.