Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup orzo pasta , uncooked ( or 1/2 cup spaghetti , broken into small pieces )
1/2 cup rice , uncooked
1 egg , beaten
1 small onion , finely diced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 pinch salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion , chopped
1 small bell pepper , chopped
2 garlic cloves , minced
2 1/2 teaspoons beef base
2 1/2 cups hot water , divided
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water
3/4 cup frozen green pea
1 can sliced mushrooms , drained
1/4 cup parsley , chopped
1/4 cup green onion , sliced
The Beef Porcupines (Cajun Style) is a hearty and flavorful dish that is inspired by the Cajun cuisine. The dish is referred to as 'porcupines' due to its appearance of rice grains poking out through the meatballs. The Cajun-inspired recipe features a perfectly spiced meatball mixture made of ground beef, orzo pasta, rice, and flavorful spices. It is then baked in a rich and savory tomato-based sauce that is flavored with beef base, mushrooms, and green peas. The dish is complete with a combination of southern flavors that leaves your taste buds satisfied and full. Serve with rice or a side salad for a delicious and balanced meal.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2.In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, orzo pasta, rice, beaten egg, finely diced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
3.Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Set aside.
4.In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5.In a small bowl, whisk together 2 cups of the hot water and the beef base until the base has dissolved. Pour the mixture over the onion mixture in the skillet.
6.In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 1/4 cup cold water. Slowly whisk the cornstarch mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly. Cook until the mixture has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
7.Stir in the frozen green peas, sliced mushrooms, chopped parsley, and sliced green onion.
8.Pour the mixture over the beef porcupine balls in the baking dish.
9.Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50-60 minutes, until the beef porcupines are cooked through and tender.

PROS

The Beef Porcupines (Cajun Style) are packed with savory flavors and is a wholesome and satisfying meal for the entire family.
It is easy to make and can be customized to any preference.

CONS

The dish is relatively high in salt and fat, making it necessary to consume in moderation.
The preparation process is a bit time-consuming and may involve several dirty dishes.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The Beef Porcupines (Cajun Style) recipe contains protein from ground beef and includes vegetables such as bell peppers, green onions, and peas. The dish is rich in iron, selenium, and zinc, which promote healthy immune function. The cayenne pepper in the dish stimulates digestion and helps regulate metabolism.

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