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Dirty Rice

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Dirty Rice is a savory Southern dish made with white rice, ground meat, aromatics, and Cajun spices. It gets its name from the ‘dirty’ color the rice takes on from the flavorful seasonings and meat. Hearty, bold, and easy to prepare, it’s great as a main or side.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked white rice
  • 1/2 lb ground beef or pork
  • 1/4 cup chicken livers, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Add chicken livers if using and cook until done.
  2. Add onion, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are soft.
  3. Stir in garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add cooked rice and stir well to combine, breaking up any clumps. Cook for another 5–7 minutes until everything is heated through.
  5. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, use mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives.
  • Adjust spice level by adding cayenne or hot sauce to taste.
  • Brown rice can be used for a more nutritious twist.
  • Leftover rice works well and keeps the texture firm.
  • Skip livers for a milder, family-friendly version.

Nutrition

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