Aunt Mary'S Red Rice
A hearty red rice dish infused with smoky bacon and tomato flavor, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, comforting taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon until crispy and crumble it into small pieces.
- Place the rice, tomato sauce, bacon, bacon drippings, diced onion, salt, pepper, and sugar into a rice steamer.
- Mix all ingredients to coat the rice evenly.
- Cook over steady steam for about 45 minutes without stirring.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use long grain rice to achieve the desired texture. If you don't have bacon drippings, substitute with olive oil or butter, though the flavor will differ. You can also add diced bell peppers or garlic for extra flavor. Adjust salt to taste based on your preference and the saltiness of the bacon.
Serving Suggestions
Aunt Mary's Red Rice is a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a fresh salad. Consider serving it alongside Chad's Favorite Cornbread for a complete meal. It also makes a fantastic base for a protein, such as chicken or shrimp, or can be enjoyed as a standalone side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover red rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent drying out, then microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mary'S Red Rice contains roughly 184 calories, with 6g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1378mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so steam for about 60-70 minutes instead of 45. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will differ slightly.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding spices such as cumin or paprika, or vegetables like bell peppers or corn. A bay leaf during cooking can also enhance the flavor. If you want a kick, add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water if needed. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika to give it a smoky flavor without the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).