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Dirty Rice: A Delicious and Authentic Recipe

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Savory Cajun classic with ground pork, beef, the “holy trinity” of vegetables, and a blend of spices for a hearty dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2–3 stalks celery, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or more, to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 4 cups cooked long-grain rice (cooked according to package directions)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Hot sauce, to taste (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and ground beef. Break the meat up with a spoon and cook until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the skillet with the meat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another minute or so, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Stir in the dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. Add the bay leaf to the skillet.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.
  8. Cover and simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and has absorbed some of the sauce. Stir occasionally.
  9. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
  10. Taste and add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper if needed. Add hot sauce for extra heat, if desired.
  11. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to your preference.
  • Meat Variations: Use ground turkey, ground chicken, or add diced andouille sausage.
  • Vegetable Variations: Add diced mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or chopped green onions.
  • Rice Variations: Use brown rice or jasmine rice (adjust cooking time accordingly).
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Can be made ahead and reheated. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing Instructions: Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Chicken Liver: Add chopped chicken livers for a more authentic flavor.
  • Smoked Paprika: A dash of smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor.
  • Deglazing the Pan: Scrape up all browned bits for maximum flavor.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve as a side dish or main course. Top with a fried egg or sour cream.

Find it online: https://mmmflavors.com/dirty-rice/