If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Simple Savoury Mince with Vegetables and Rice Recipe is just the ticket. It brings together rich, tender beef mince cooked in a luscious tomato and gravy sauce, paired with tender potatoes, vibrant carrots, earthy mushrooms, and sweet peas and corn—all served over fluffy steamed rice. This recipe is truly a weeknight hero, marrying straightforward ingredients into something utterly satisfying and packed with wholesome flavors that everyone will love.

A white bowl filled with a base layer of white rice, topped with a thick mix of ground meat, diced orange carrots, yellow corn, green peas, and beige potato chunks, all covered in a brown sauce with visible black pepper sprinkled on top. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface next to a silver fork. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, everyday ingredients create a wonderful harmony of flavors and textures in the dish. Each component plays a vital role—from the caramelized onion adding sweetness, to the juicy mince providing richness, and the colorful veggies contributing freshness and bite.

1 tbsp olive oil: This is your flavor base and helps brown the mince beautifully.
1 brown onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down.
500g Coles 3 star beef mince: The star protein for a tender, juicy texture.
2 tbsp instant beef gravy powder: Brings a rich, savory essence that elevates the sauce.
1 cup tomato puree: Tenderly tangy, it balances the heartiness of the mince.
1 cup cold water: Helps create the perfect simmering sauce.
400g red royale potatoes, peeled, diced: These absorb flavor while adding comforting heft.
300g carrots, peeled, diced: Offers a subtly sweet crunch and vivid color.
200g button mushrooms, quartered: Earthy and meaty, they enrich the overall taste.
150g (1 cup) frozen peas and corn: Bursts of sweetness and freshness to finish.
Steamed white rice, to serve: The perfect fluffy bed to soak up all that luscious mince and vegetable sauce.

How to Make Simple Savoury Mince with Vegetables and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Mince and Onions

Begin by heating the olive oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and the beef mince. Stir frequently with a wooden spoon to break up the mince as it cooks. After about 6 to 8 minutes, you’ll notice the mince taking on a gorgeous golden-brown color while the onions soften and release their natural sweetness. This step is crucial because it builds a deep, savory foundation for the dish.

Step 2: Create the Rich Sauce

Once the mince is browned, sprinkle in the instant beef gravy powder followed by the tomato puree and cold water. Stir thoroughly to combine everything into a smooth, thick sauce. The gravy powder and tomato puree marry together to give this dish its signature rich and tangy flavor that makes each bite irresistible.

Step 3: Add the Root Vegetables

Next, gently fold in the diced red royale potatoes and carrots. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Cover the saucepan and bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally during this time to prevent sticking and ensure everything cooks evenly. This slow simmer softens the potatoes and carrots perfectly, allowing them to soak up the flavors of the sauce.

Step 4: Finish with Mushrooms, Peas, and Corn

With your root vegetables just tender, it’s time to add the quartered button mushrooms and the peas and corn mix. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add fantastic texture and a burst of freshness. Cook for another 5 minutes or until everything is heated through and the mushrooms have softened nicely. This final step ensures a vibrant and delicious balance in the dish.

How to Serve Simple Savoury Mince with Vegetables and Rice Recipe

Simple Savoury Mince with Vegetables and Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives scattered over the top adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that brightens up this hearty dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of sour cream or a light scattering of grated cheese can also lift the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

While steamed white rice is the classic pairing, you can also serve this savoury mince with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread for a comforting twist. A crisp green salad with a zingy vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the mince perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-friendly option, serve the mince over rice inside hollowed-out bell peppers or baked potatoes. If you’re entertaining, try layering the mince and vegetables with rice in a casserole dish topped with cheese for an easy, crowd-pleasing bake. The possibilities are endless and always delicious with this flexible Simple Savoury Mince with Vegetables and Rice Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps really well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container to maintain freshness and avoid any unpleasant smells mixing with other foods.

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead of time, this savoury mince freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some headspace as the sauce expands when frozen.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until steaming hot throughout. Give it a good stir to refresh the sauce’s consistency, and you might want to sprinkle in a little extra water or gravy powder if it’s thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of mince for this recipe?

Absolutely! While beef mince gives a classic flavour, you can substitute lamb, pork, or even chicken mince depending on your preference. Each choice will bring a slightly different taste and texture, but all work well with the vegetable blend.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can swap the beef mince for plant-based mince alternatives or lentils. Use vegetable gravy powder instead of beef and choose vegan tomato puree to keep the integrity of the dish while making it plant-friendly.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas and corn?

Definitely! Fresh peas and corn will add an even brighter flavour and crisp texture. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they don’t overcook.

What type of rice pairs best with this savoury mince?

Steamed white rice is classic and perfect because its neutral flavor soaks up the saucy mince beautifully. However, brown rice or jasmine rice can also be great options if you prefer a nuttier flavor or more aromatic touch.

How can I make this recipe more spicy?

If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the onions, or stir some cayenne pepper into the gravy mixture. This will add an exciting kick without overpowering the comforting flavours.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Savoury Mince with Vegetables and Rice Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia to your dinner table. With its easy preparation and wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for busy nights or whenever you crave a fulfilling, home-cooked meal. Give it a go and watch it quickly become one of your family favorites!

Simple Savoury Mince with Vegetables and Rice Recipe