1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This little step is crucial—it’s when the kitchen starts smelling like comfort to me, just like Mama Lou’s house.
3. Introduce the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up, stirring and cooking until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
4. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, ground cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper over the beef. Stir well to combine. The spices should coat every bit of meat, creating a flavorful base.
5. Pour in the soy sauce and apple cider vinegar. Stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds depth and a subtle tanginess to the bowl.
6. Drizzle the hot honey over the mixture and gently fold it in. You’ll notice the meat glistening with a sticky, sweet heat that dances on your tongue. Trust me, this step turns the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
7. Remove the skillet from heat. Prepare your serving bowls by layering cooked rice first, then spoon the spicy ground beef over the top.
8. Add your choice of steamed or roasted vegetables around the bowl. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley and a squeeze of lime if you like a bright pop of acidity.

When I make this for Ouma and myself, we love to slow down just enough to savor the textures—the tender beef, the soft rice, and the crisp veggies. It’s a simple meal, but it feels like a celebration of flavors and family.