Recipe: Dirty Rice

Dirty Rice is a classic Cajun dish known for its robust flavors and hearty ingredients. This version of the recipe substitutes traditional chicken livers (which kids run away from) with ground beef and pork sausage while using bacon grease to add depth to the flavor profile. The combination of meats with aromatic vegetables and spices results in a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Note on Traditional Ingredients: While traditional Dirty Rice often includes finely chopped chicken livers, this recipe offers a twist by using ground beef and pork sausage. Bacon grease is used to replicate the rich flavor typically provided by the livers. Some variations of the dish also include mushrooms or oysters.

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Ingredients List

  • 1 lb Ground Beef
  • 1 lb Ground Pork Sausage
  • 4-5 Cups Cooked Rice, prepared with chicken broth
  • 2 Cups Chicken Broth
  • ¾ Cup Green Bell Pepper diced
  • ¾ Cup Yellow Onion, diced
  • ¼ Cup Celery, diced
  • ¼ Cup Flour
  • 1 Tablespoon Bacon Grease or Cooking Oil
  • 3 Bay Leaves
  • 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped
  • 1 Tablespoon Dried Oregano
  • 2 Teaspoons Smoked Paprika
  • 2 Teaspoons Minced Garlic
  • 1 ½ Teaspoons Salt
  • 1 Teaspoon Chipolte Powder
  • ½ Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
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Preparation Steps

  1. Heat bacon grease or cooking oil in a large skillet. Add ground beef and pork sausage, cooking until browned.
  2. As the meat browns, add diced bell pepper, onion, and celery.
  3. Once the meat is fully browned, stir in the oregano, minced garlic, salt, chipotle powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
  4. Sprinkle in the flour, ensuring it coats the meat and vegetable mixture thoroughly.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and add bay leaves. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. Let the mixture simmer for 5-8 minutes.
  6. Fold in the cooked rice and chopped parsley. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  7. Serve the Dirty Rice hot.
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Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
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Serving Information

  • Serves: 6-8 people
  • Ideal as a main dish or as a hearty side.
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Notes on Variations

  • For a richer flavor, consider adding finely chopped chicken livers, mushrooms, or oysters.
  • Adjust the level of spices to suit your taste preferences.
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Last Modified: 12/18/2023