Loretta'S Red Rice
Loretta's Red Rice is a hearty, flavorful dish combining rice with savory sausage or ham, seasoned with tomato sauce, paste, and fresh vegetables. Its rich, comforting flavors make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of spice, sweetness, and smoky richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute green pepper, celery, and onion with sausage in a tablespoon of butter.
- Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, 2 cans of water, sugar, salt, pepper, and Accent.
- Bring to a boil and add rice.
- Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked sausage or a mix of meats like ham and sausage. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with mushrooms or extra vegetables. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially with Accent, which enhances the flavors. This dish can also be made with brown rice; just increase the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this red rice as a hearty main dish or as a side to grilled meats. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or cornbread for a complete meal. For an extra kick, consider serving it alongside Mesquite Grilled Cajun Turkey to create a flavorful feast that celebrates American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent drying out and microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit more liquid if necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Loretta'S Red Rice contains roughly 206 calories, with 6g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2206mg per serving (96% 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 takes longer to cook, usually around 40-45 minutes, so add extra liquid and keep an eye on it to ensure it's cooked through and tender.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes along with a bit of tomato paste to maintain the thickness. Alternatively, a homemade mix of tomatoes blended with spices can work as well.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This red rice dish is great for meal prep. It stores well and the flavors deepen after sitting. Just divide it into portions and refrigerate or freeze. Reheat as needed for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
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).