Soy-Free Arroz Cubana

Experience the comforting flavors of the Caribbean with this Soy-Free Arroz Cubana, a hearty and flavorful twist on the classic Cuban dish. This recipe features fluffy white rice topped with a savory ground beef sauté infused with garlic, onion, tomato sauce, and a hint of sweetness. Perfectly fried eggs and golden caramelized bananas or plantains complete the plate, adding rich texture and a touch of natural sweetness. With no soy-based ingredients, this easy-to-make meal is ideal for those with dietary restrictions yet doesn’t skimp on flavor. Ready in just under an hour, Soy-Free Arroz Cubana is a satisfying, balanced dish that’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Brighten up your dinner table with this rustic yet elegant recipe!

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups white rice
• 4 cups water
• 1 pound ground beef
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 ripe bananas or plantains
• 4 eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the white rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rice and water to a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 2

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is cooked. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it's browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.

Step 5

Pour in the tomato sauce, and add the bay leaf, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Stir well, bring to a simmer, and let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 6

Peel the bananas or plantains, and slice them lengthwise.

Step 7

In another skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the banana slices and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and keep warm.

Step 8

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet and fry until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your liking, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 9

To serve, place a portion of cooked white rice on each plate. Top with the beef mixture, place a fried egg on top, and serve with fried banana slices on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2139.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1645.3

Total Fat 89.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 26.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.7g
Cholesterol 809.8mg	0%
Sodium 3111.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 171.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.8g	0%
Total Sugars 43.4g
Protein 40.3g	0%

Vitamin D 168.5IU	0%
Calcium 287.1mg	0%
Iron 6.4mg	0%
Potassium 1453.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.7%

Protein: 9.8%

Carbs: 41.5%