Mains
Santa Cruz Beef and Rice
Ingredients
- - 300g (10 oz) charque (dried salted beef) or beef jerky, shredded
- - 400g (2 cups) white rice
- - 1 onion, finely chopped
- - 2 garlic cloves, minced
- - 1 red bell pepper, diced
- - 2 tomatoes, diced
- - 1 tbsp achiote (annatto) oil or paprika
- - 800ml (3 1/4 cups) beef stock
- - 4 eggs, fried
- - 1 ripe plantain, sliced and fried
- - Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- If using very dry charque, soak briefly in warm water, then shred finely and fry until lightly crisp.
- In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, pepper and tomato in achiote oil until softened.
- Add the shredded charque and stir to combine with the vegetables.
- Add the rice and stir to coat in the fat and vegetables, then pour in the stock.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a low simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice, season to taste, and serve topped with a fried egg and fried plantain slices.
Introduction: Majadito hails from the eastern lowland department of Santa Cruz, where rice cultivation and cattle ranching define the local cuisine.
Cultural Background: Majadito hails from the eastern lowland department of Santa Cruz, where rice cultivation and cattle ranching define the local cuisine. Built on charque (Bolivian dried, salted beef), the dish is a hearty, savoury rice preparation often eaten with fried egg, plantain and yuca.
Tips: Charque is very salty — taste before adding extra salt to the dish.
Variations: Chicken can replace charque for a milder, everyday version called majadito de pollo. Vegetarian / Vegan Note Not traditionally vegetarian; smoked mushrooms and extra beans can approximate the savoury depth.
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a covered pan over low heat with a splash of stock to loosen the rice.
Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 520 kcal, 26g protein, 16g fat, 65g carbohydrate.
FAQs:
Q: What is charque and where can I find it?
A: Charque is Bolivia's traditional dried, salted beef, similar to jerky; South American grocery stores often stock it, or beef jerky can substitute.