Dirty Rice is a classic Louisiana Creole dish that combines rice with flavorful pork, bacon, and vegetables, all seasoned with Cajun spices. This hearty and savory dish is perfect as a main course or a side dish, offering a taste of Southern comfort food that’s both easy and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 200 g long grain or basmati rice
- 400 g 5% pork mince
- 4 bacon medallions, diced
- ½ red pepper, sliced
- ½ green pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, diced
- 2 sticks celery, chopped
- 3 spring onions, chopped
- 1 chicken stock cube
- 125 ml water
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 generous dash Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
- Low-calorie cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
- Wash the rice under cold running water until it becomes clear.
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set aside.
2. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Dice the bacon medallions.
- Slice the red and green peppers.
- Dice the red onion.
- Chop the celery and spring onions.
3. Cook the Pork and Bacon:
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat and spray with low-calorie cooking spray.
- Add the pork mince and diced bacon to the pan.
- Continue cooking the pork until it achieves a deep brown color and is completely cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon throughout the cooking process.
4. Add Vegetables and Seasonings:
- Add the diced red onion, chopped celery, sliced red and green peppers, and chopped spring onions to the pan with the pork and bacon.
- Sauté the vegetables for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to become tender.
5. Add Cajun Seasoning and Liquid:
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf.
- Dissolve the chicken stock cube in 125 ml of water, then pour it into the pan.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
6. Combine with Rice:
- Add the cooked rice to the pan with the pork and vegetable mixture.
- Stir well to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the seasoning and mixed with the other ingredients.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and all ingredients are well incorporated.
7. Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve the Dirty Rice hot, garnished with extra chopped spring onions if desired.
Conclusion:
Dirty Rice is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. With its mix of pork, bacon, and vegetables, it’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this classic Southern dish with family and friends, and savor the rich, savory taste of Dirty Rice!