Cinco de Mayo

An unlikely victory by the Mexican army over the French forces in Puebla, Mexico on May 5th, 1862 is the reason Mexicans and Americans celebrate Cinco de Mayo.  It has become a day to celebrate the Mexican culture and heritage with music, dancing and food.

No need to give you recipes for Tacos....  or Margaritas...
How about Spanish Rice as a nice side dish?

Spanish Rice

1 lb. ground beef
1 onion, diced
1/2 cup raw rice
1 (8oz) can tomato sauce
2 cups water
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 (6oz) can tomato paste
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 green pepper, diced

Brown the ground beef and onion in a deep frying pan that has a lid.  Add remaining ingredients.  Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
Optional: you can add a drained can of corn if you want a little more color, and an all-in-one dish.
(Check a few times and give it a stir to make sure the water is being absorbed by the rice.  If it seems too dry, add a little more water so it doesn't scorch.)