Backbones And Rice
Hearty backbones and rice dish features tender meat, flavorful stock, and savory vegetables, perfect for comforting family meals and those who enjoy rich, slow-cooked flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put ribs, celery, onions, salt, pepper, and water in a large covered pot and cook on high until it boils.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 to 3 hours until the meat falls off the bones. Allow to cool enough to handle.
- Remove the meat from the bones and put it in another covered saucepan.
- Add the rice and 4.5 cups of the stock with the celery and onions to the saucepan.
- Taste the stock for salt and add more if needed.
- Cover and simmer on low heat until the rice is done and the liquid is absorbed.
- Check occasionally and add a little more stock if the rice is not done and all liquid has been absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs such as thyme or bay leaves during the simmering process. If country backbone ribs are not available, pork neck bones or spare ribs can be good substitutes. Adjust the amount of salt based on your preference and the saltiness of your stock. To make this dish lighter, you can use brown rice instead of white rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the backbones and rice hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad, like a Japanese Chicken Salad, to balance the heartiness of the meal. A dash of hot sauce can also enhance the flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or stock to the saucepan and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This helps to prevent the rice from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Backbones And Rice contains roughly 181 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1302mg per serving (57% 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 a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Place the ribs, vegetables, and seasonings in the slow cooker and add water. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender. Then follow the remaining steps for adding rice.
What type of rice works best for this dish?
Long-grain white rice is typically used, but you can substitute with brown rice for a healthier option. Just be aware that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
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).