Rice
A comforting and flavorful rice dish featuring crispy bacon, sautéed vegetables, and aromatic rice simmered to perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying side, its savory and smoky notes appeal to those who enjoy hearty, well-seasoned meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the chopped bacon in a skillet until crispy.
- Add chopped celery, half an onion, green pepper strips, and tomato (if desired) to the bacon and sauté until vegetables are tender.
- Add the rice to the skillet and cook until it starts to brown with the bacon and vegetables.
- Pour in water or chicken broth, then cover the skillet.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked bacon or pancetta instead of regular bacon. You can substitute the rice with quinoa or farro for a different texture. If you like a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance the flavors at the end.
Serving Suggestions
This rice dish is a hearty side that pairs well with grilled meats or a simple green salad. Try serving it alongside a refreshing Eight Layer Salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness. It can also be enjoyed as a filling main dish by adding cooked chicken or shrimp.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and warm over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through to prevent drying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice contains roughly 109 calories, with 6g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2146mg per serving (93% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Typically, brown rice needs about 30-40 minutes to cook, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.
What can I do if my rice is still hard after the cooking time?
If your rice is hard after 20 minutes, add a little more liquid (water or broth) and continue to simmer, covered, for an additional 5-10 minutes. This should help the rice to soften and absorb the remaining moisture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can enhance the umami flavor by adding mushrooms or a splash of soy sauce to the sautéed vegetables.
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).