When it comes to American regional cuisine, Arkansas is often overlooked. However, the state has its own culinary gems, including the beloved Arkansas Travelers dish. This recipe showcases the rich flavors and hearty ingredients that make up the cuisine of the Ozarks, a region known for its rustic charm and farm-to-table traditions. In this detailed guide, we will delve into the long history and unique character of Arkansas Travelers, offering a step-by-step preparation process to bring this delicious and comforting dish to your table.

The origins of Arkansas Travelers can be traced back to the pioneers and settlers who traversed the rugged landscapes of the Ozarks during the 19th century. These travelers relied on simple, filling meals that could sustain them on their long journeys. Arkansas Travelers became a staple dish, as it combined readily available ingredients and offered a satisfying and nourishing meal.

The dish’s name, Arkansas Travelers, pays homage to the history of migration and exploration that shaped the state. It reflects the resourcefulness and resilience of those who traveled through Arkansas, adapting to the terrain and making use of local ingredients. Arkansas Travelers embodies the spirit of the Ozarks and its agricultural heritage.

PREP/TOTAL TIME: 15 MIN.

MAKES: 5 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cups diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup frozen lima beans
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables become tender and aromatic.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, frozen corn kernels, and lima beans. Mix well.
4. Add the chili powder, dried thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Cook the rice separately according to package instructions.
7. Once the Arkansas Travelers mixture has simmered, remove the lid and stir in the cooked rice. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the flavors blend.
8. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices if desired.
9. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the Arkansas Travelers rest for a few minutes.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions.
11. Serve the Arkansas Travelers hot in bowls or on plates, allowing the flavors to meld further as the dish cools.

NOTES:

• Arkansas Travelers encapsulates the rustic and comforting flavors of the Ozarks, offering a taste of the region’s rich agricultural heritage. By preparing this dish, you can experience the hearty and nourishing nature of Arkansas cuisine in your own kitchen. Let the blend of ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and warming spices transport you to the rugged landscapes of the state. Enjoy the satisfying combination of textures and flavors as you savor each spoonful of this delicious dish. Arkansas Travelers are a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the pioneers who traversed the region, leaving behind a culinary legacy that continues to delight food enthusiasts today.