Mom'S Red Rice
Mom's Red Rice is a hearty, savory dish with smoky bacon, tender tomatoes, and perfectly cooked rice, offering a comforting flavor profile ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a medium-sized heavy saucepan until done.
- Saute onion until soft.
- Add canned tomatoes to the saucepan.
- Use the can to measure 2/3 can of rice and 1/3 can of water.
- Add the rice and water mixture to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat immediately after boiling.
- Add a generous amount of salt and pepper and a half teaspoon of sugar.
- Stir the mixture and cover the saucepan.
- Cook over low heat for approximately 1 hour, stirring with a fork every 10 minutes.
- Rice should be firm and dry, not crunchy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, use thick-cut bacon and ensure it's crispy before adding the onion. If you want to make the dish vegetarian, consider substituting the bacon with smoked paprika and using vegetable broth instead of water. You can also use brown rice for a healthier twist, but adjust the cooking time accordingly, as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. Taste and adjust seasoning before the final simmer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mom's Red Rice as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Jiffy Hamburger Stew for a comforting meal. You can also enjoy it as a main dish topped with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. For a complete meal, consider serving a light salad on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice before microwaving or reheating on the stove to prevent drying out. If the rice seems dry, you can also add a bit of broth for extra flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Red Rice contains roughly 137 calories, with 6g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 771mg per serving (34% 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 different types of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of rice, but remember that cooking times and liquid ratios may vary. For example, brown rice will require more water and a longer cooking time. Always check the package instructions for the best results!
How do I know when the rice is done?
The rice is done when it is firm and dry but not crunchy. It should have absorbed all the liquid during cooking. Stirring with a fork every 10 minutes helps achieve an even texture, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, peas, or corn can be added along with the tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add more ingredients to ensure everything cooks evenly.
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).