Nana'S Brown Rice Pilaf
Nana's Brown Rice Pilaf combines hearty brown rice with savory bacon, toasted almonds, and tender vegetables, offering a comforting side perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp.
- Save 2 tablespoons of drippings. Crumble bacon and set aside.
- Cook onions and celery in the bacon drippings until tender, not brown.
- Add beef broth, uncooked brown rice, white wine, toasted almonds, salt, and crumbled bacon to the vegetables.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Transfer to a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake, covered, at 325°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon. If you want to reduce the fat, you can substitute turkey bacon. If you don't have beef broth, vegetable broth works well, but it may slightly change the flavor. To enhance the dish, add spices like thyme or bay leaf during cooking for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
This brown rice pilaf is a hearty side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or with dishes like Enola'S Barbecued Shrimp for a complete meal. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the dish and microwave until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana'S Brown Rice Pilaf contains roughly 296 calories, with 9g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value), and potassium (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2813mg per serving (122% 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 different type of rice?
While brown rice is recommended for its nuttiness and texture, you can substitute with white rice. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as white rice cooks faster. Follow the package instructions for the best results.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use olive oil for cooking the vegetables. Replace beef broth with vegetable broth, and consider adding mushrooms for an umami flavor. Toasted nuts can still add a nice crunch.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by incorporating spices such as cumin or paprika. Adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers can also provide additional texture and taste. For a unique twist, try mixing in dried fruits like cranberries or apricots.
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).