Honduran Beef in Coconut-Achiote Sauce with Sweet Plantain and Cilantro Rice

Instructions

1. 1

   1. In a bowl, combine the beef with 1 teaspoon of the salt, black pepper, ground annatto, ground cumin, half of the minced garlic, and the orange juice. Let it rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

2. 2

   2. Meanwhile, rinse the uncooked white rice until the water runs clearer. In a medium pot over medium heat, melt the butter, add half of the chopped fresh cilantro, and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the rice and stir for 1 minute to lightly toast it.

3. 3

   3. Add the 2 cups (480 ml) water and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the rice. Once it boils, reduce to low heat, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Turn off the heat and let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes.

4. 4

   4. In a wide pot or deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the drained beef, reserving the marinade, and brown it in batches for 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.

5. 5

   5. In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the white onion and red bell pepper for 4 minutes. Add the rest of the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds more. Stir in the ripe tomato and cook for 5 minutes, lightly mashing it to create a juicy base.

6. 6

   6. Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the reserved marinade, coconut milk, and the water or beef broth. Mix well and bring to a gentle boil.

7. 7

   7. Once boiling, reduce to low heat, partially cover, and cook for 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender. If you prefer to finish it in the oven, transfer the oven-safe pot and cook covered at 325°F (165°C) for 35 minutes.

8. 8

   8. Add the sliced ripe plantain and cook 8 to 10 minutes more over low heat, until tender but not falling apart and the sauce looks slightly thickened.

9. 9

   9. Turn off the heat and add the remaining chopped fresh cilantro and the lime juice. Taste and adjust with the remaining salt if needed.

10. 10

    10. Fluff the rice with a fork. Serve a portion of cilantro rice alongside the beef in coconut-annatto sauce with sweet plantain, spooning plenty of sauce over each plate.