Cajun Dirty Rice is a robust and hearty dish originating from Louisiana, known for its bold flavors and satisfying combination of rice, vegetables, and seasoned meat. This recipe incorporates lean minced beef, a variety of fresh vegetables, and a kick of Cajun seasoning and hot sauce to create a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Follow these easy steps to make a spicy and flavorful Cajun Dirty Rice at home.
Ingredients
- 500 grams lean minced beef (5% fat)
- 250 grams rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 red peppers, chopped
- 200 grams mushrooms, cut in half
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 beef stock pot
- 1 chicken stock pot
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp Frank’s Red Hot Sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 bunch spring onions, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 4 rashers lean bacon, visible fat removed, chopped
- Low-calorie cooking spray
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped, to garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions. After cooking, transfer it to a cooling rack and let it rest for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving.
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- While the rice is cooking, chop the onion, red peppers, and spring onions. Cut the mushrooms in half and finely chop the garlic. Chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Cook the Bacon and Beef:
- Heat a large skillet or pan over medium heat and spray with low-calorie cooking spray. Add the chopped bacon to the skillet and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it begins to turn a rich, golden brown and becomes slightly crispy around the edges. Add the lean minced beef and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, red peppers, mushrooms, and garlic to the skillet with the beef and bacon.
- Continue cooking until the vegetables become tender and begin to soften, which should take approximately 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add Seasonings and Stock:
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and Frank’s Red Hot Sauce. Add the beef stock pot, chicken stock pot, and bay leaf. Mix well to combine.
- Combine with Rice:
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, giving the flavors ample time to meld together harmoniously. Just before serving, season with freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary to enhance the overall flavor.
- Finish with Spring Onions and Parsley:
- Stir in the chopped spring onions. Remove the bay leaf and discard.
- Before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley over the dish to add a burst of color and a fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Serve:
- Serve the Cajun Dirty Rice hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy this flavorful and spicy dish as a main course or a side.
Conclusion
Cajun Dirty Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Louisiana to your table. With its combination of seasoned meat, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, this dish is sure to please anyone who enjoys bold and spicy flavors. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe for a delicious and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Bon appétit!