Momma'S Red Rice
Momma's Red Rice is a hearty, flavorful dish with smoky bacon, tangy stewed tomatoes, and tender rice, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon until crispy and remove from the pan.
- Add the stewed tomatoes to the bacon drippings and cook briefly.
- Add the rice to the tomato mixture and stir well.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for approximately 30 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Crumble the fried bacon and sprinkle on top of the rice before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or onions to the bacon drippings before adding the tomatoes. You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or even a vegetarian option, like smoked paprika, for a different taste. Adjust the rice quantity based on how many servings you need; short-grain rice works well for a creamier texture, akin to Asian Rice.
Serving Suggestions
This red rice pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Pork Roast, German Style, for a hearty dinner. For a vegetarian option, a side of Lima Beans (Butter Beans) Or Field Peas complements the dish nicely, adding a nutritious touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover red rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent drying out and microwave covered for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of water if necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Momma'S Red Rice contains roughly 123 calories, with 6g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% 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 keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. You'll need to increase the simmering time to about 45-50 minutes. Additionally, you may need to add a little more liquid to ensure the rice cooks properly.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and use vegetable oil instead. To add depth of flavor, incorporate smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. You can also enhance it with vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a heartier, more nutritious meal.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the tomatoes. If you enjoy a smokier flavor, you might also try adding chipotle powder. Adjust the spice level according to your preference for a customized kick.
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).