Raley’s Something Extra Teriyaki Tomato Rice and Beef: A Weeknight Wonder

There are some dishes that, with just a single taste, transport you back to a specific moment, a feeling, or a memory. For me, this Raley’s Something Extra Teriyaki Tomato Rice and Beef does precisely that. I can vividly recall a bustling evening in my own kitchen, the aroma of browning beef mingling with the sweet and savory promise of teriyaki. It was one of those nights where inspiration felt just out of reach, but the pantry offered a simple solution that quickly became a family favorite, proving that deliciousness doesn’t need to be complicated. The sheer satisfaction of seeing empty plates and hearing “Can we have this again soon?” is a reward in itself, and this recipe consistently delivers that joy.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 6 servings
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

Gather these straightforward ingredients to bring this comforting skillet meal to life:

• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 1 lb ground beef (round, chuck, or beef)
• 3/4 cup soy vay veri veri teriyaki sauce (The original recipe notes B.E.S. as a suitable alternative, and I find its robust flavor works beautifully here.)
• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 cup sliced green onion

Equipment Needed

You won’t need a vast arsenal of kitchen gadgets for this straightforward dish. A few essentials will do:

• Medium saucepan (for cooking rice)
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

Bringing this flavorful meal together is a breeze, perfect for those nights when time is of the essence.

1. Begin by preparing your rice. Cook 1 cup of long grain white rice according to the package directions. Crucially, prepare it without any added butter or salt to allow the flavors of the main dish to shine through.
2. While the rice is simmering away, turn your attention to the ground beef. In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef over medium-high heat. As it cooks, use the back of a wooden spoon or a spatula to break it up into smaller, crumbles.
3. Once the beef has been thoroughly browned, it’s time to drain excess fat. Tilt the skillet carefully and pour off any rendered fat.
4. Now, it’s time to bring all the delicious components together. Stir in the teriyaki sauce, ketchup, and ground ginger directly into the skillet with the browned beef.
5. Add the hot cooked rice to the skillet, stirring gently to combine it with the beef and sauce mixture. Ensure everything is well incorporated.
6. Finally, sprinkle the dish with 1/4 cup of sliced green onion just before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Expert Tips & Tricks

As a chef, I always look for ways to elevate even the simplest of dishes. While this Raley’s Something Extra recipe is designed for speed and ease, here are a few thoughts to make it even better:

• Beef Selection: While the recipe calls for a general “ground beef,” choosing a cut like chuck will often yield a richer flavor due to its slightly higher fat content, which also adds moisture. If you’re watching fat intake, lean round is a good option, but ensure you drain the fat thoroughly.
• Teriyaki Sauce: The “soy vay veri veri teriyaki sauce” is a specific product that often has a wonderful balance of sweet, savory, and a hint of garlic. If you can’t find it, look for a good quality, well-rounded teriyaki sauce. You might need to adjust seasonings slightly if using a different brand.
• Ginger Boost: For a more pronounced ginger kick, consider adding a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger along with the ground ginger. The fresh spice offers a different layer of aromatic warmth.
• Rice Perfection: Ensure your rice is cooked to fluffy perfection. Overcooked or mushy rice can detract from the overall texture of this dish. Rinsing your rice before cooking can help achieve a lighter, fluffier result.
• Doneness Check: For the beef, “browned” is key. You want to see no pink remaining. For the rice, follow package instructions precisely.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Teriyaki Tomato Rice and Beef is a complete meal in itself, but it also pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crisp side.

• Serving: Serve this delightful skillet dish hot, directly from the pan or plated. The vibrant green of the sliced green onion adds a lovely visual appeal. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside an Asian salad with a sesame ginger dressing, as suggested in the original recipe notes. The bright, fresh salad offers a delightful contrast to the rich, savory skillet.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the mixture in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it until heated through. You might want to add a splash of water or a bit more teriyaki sauce if it seems a little dry after refrigeration. Freezing is also an option, and it should keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, based on the provided data:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	380
Protein	23 g
Total Fat	14 g
Saturated Fat	4.5 g
Trans Fat	1 g
Carbohydrate	39 g
Dietary Fiber	0 g
Sugars	13 g
Cholesterol	70 mg
Sodium	1200 mg
Weight Watchers Points	9

Note: The original data provided a range for calories, with a specific mention of 319.8 calories and Weight Watchers points at 9. The figure of 380 calories appears to be derived from a separate calculation or a different serving size interpretation from the source. The values presented above are directly from the provided “Nutrition Per Serving” data point.

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is wonderfully balanced as is, you can certainly put your own spin on it:

• For a Spicier Kick: If your family enjoys a bit more heat, the original recipe suggests adding a tablespoon or two of chili garlic sauce to the teriyaki mixture. This adds a lovely depth of spice without overpowering the other flavors.
• Vegetarian Option: For a meatless rendition, ground turkey or ground chicken can be used in place of beef. Alternatively, you could substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or even add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans for protein and heartiness.
• Rice Swap: While long grain white rice is classic, you could experiment with brown rice for added fiber, or even quinoa for a protein boost. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to stir in some finely chopped onion and garlic when browning the beef, or add some frozen peas or diced carrots during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can certainly prepare the beef and sauce mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the rice fresh when you’re ready to serve and combine everything.

Q: How can I reduce the sodium content?
A: Opt for a low-sodium teriyaki sauce and low-sodium ketchup. You can also rinse canned ingredients like beans (if using) thoroughly.

Q: My rice seems a bit dry after mixing. What can I do?
A: A small splash of water, chicken broth, or a little extra teriyaki sauce can help moisten the rice if it seems dry. Stir gently to combine.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?
A: The original recipe notes that it fed picky eaters successfully. The familiar flavors of teriyaki and ketchup, combined with tender beef and rice, are generally well-received.

Q: How long does it take to cook the rice?
A: Cooking time for rice varies by brand and type, but typically long grain white rice takes about 15-20 minutes to cook. Always refer to the package instructions for the most accurate timing.

Final Thoughts

This Raley’s Something Extra Teriyaki Tomato Rice and Beef is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simple, honest ingredients coming together to create something truly satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that reassures you that a delicious, home-cooked meal is well within reach, even on the busiest of evenings. I encourage you to try it, to taste its comforting familiarity, and perhaps, to create your own cherished memories around your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to share your own variations or feedback – that’s the joy of cooking!