Bacon and Tomato Sauce with Rice

Bacon and Tomato Sauce with Rice Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Bacon and Tomato Sauce with Rice recipe is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of bacon with the tangy sweetness of tomatoes, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. It's a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, perfect for any meal of the day. The combination of simple ingredients and easy preparation makes this dish a favorite among home cooks looking for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

History

The origins of combining bacon, tomato, and rice can be traced back to various cuisines around the world, each adding its unique twist to this versatile combination. This particular recipe draws inspiration from traditional American comfort food, where bacon is a staple ingredient known for adding depth and richness to dishes. The use of tomatoes and rice is a nod to Mediterranean influences, where these ingredients are commonly used together in a variety of dishes. Over time, this recipe has evolved into a beloved classic, enjoyed by families for its simplicity and delicious taste.

Ingredients

1 cup of chopped celery
0.5 cup of chopped onion
0.25 cup of finely minced bacon
2 tbsp of flour
2 cups of chopped canned tomatoes
1 tsp of sugar
1 cup of chicken broth
4 cups of hot cooked rice

How to prepare

In a large skillet, combine celery, onion, and bacon. Cook until the bacon is crisp.
Add flour and cook for 1 minute.
Blend in tomatoes, sugar, and broth.
Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly.
Serve the mixture over hot rice.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. For a spicier kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the bacon is perfectly crisp, cook it on medium heat, allowing the fat to render slowly. This will also infuse the celery and onion with a rich, smoky flavor. When adding the flour, make sure to cook it for a full minute to remove the raw taste, which is crucial for achieving a smooth and thick sauce. For an even more flavorful dish, consider using fire-roasted canned tomatoes for an added depth of flavor. Lastly, always taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served hot, directly over freshly cooked rice. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a flavorful finishing touch.

Cooking Techniques

The key to this recipe is the sautéing technique used to cook the bacon, celery, and onion, which builds the foundation of flavor for the sauce. The roux, made by cooking flour with the rendered fat, thickens the sauce, giving it a rich and creamy texture. Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have canned tomatoes on hand, fresh tomatoes can be used as a substitute. Simply blanch, peel, and chop them before adding to the sauce. In place of bacon, smoked ham or pancetta can be used for a similar smoky flavor. For a gluten-free option, cornstarch mixed with a little water can replace the flour as a thickening agent.

Make Ahead Tips

This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the sauce over a mound of rice, garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation. For a rustic look, serve it in a cast-iron skillet, allowing guests to spoon the sauce over their rice.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Rosé, which can complement the tanginess of the tomatoes. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime is refreshing and balances the richness of the bacon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to thin it if necessary. Avoid microwaving, as this can affect the texture of the sauce.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this delicious dish contains approximately 350 calories, making it a moderate-calorie meal option. The balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats provides sustained energy, making it a satisfying meal that can fit into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This dish provides a good balance of carbohydrates, primarily from the rice and tomatoes. One serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The rice serves as the main source of carbs, offering energy and making it a satisfying meal. The tomatoes add a modest amount of natural sugars, contributing to the overall carbohydrate content.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the bacon, contributing to the dish's rich flavor and mouthfeel. One serving contains about 10 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. Using leaner cuts of bacon can reduce the fat content, making the dish lighter while still maintaining its savory taste.

Proteins

Protein is an essential component of this dish, with each serving providing approximately 15 grams of protein. The bacon and chicken broth contribute to the protein content, making this meal a good option for those looking to include more protein in their diet. For an extra protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken or beans to the sauce.

Vitamins and minerals

This Bacon and Tomato Sauce with Rice is a source of several vitamins and minerals, particularly from the tomatoes and celery. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and potassium, while celery provides vitamin K and folate. Together, these ingredients contribute to a nutritious meal that supports overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten (from the flour) and may contain allergens depending on the chicken broth used. It's important for individuals with food allergies or sensitivities to check the labels of the broth and bacon for any potential allergens. For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative.

Summary

Overall, this Bacon and Tomato Sauce with Rice is a balanced and nutritious meal, offering a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a comforting dish that can be easily modified to suit dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

This Bacon and Tomato Sauce with Rice recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of bacon with the freshness of tomatoes, all served over a bed of rice. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a versatile meal that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, it's sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a sunny summer day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe box that belonged to my mother. As I sifted through the faded index cards and handwritten notes, I stumbled upon a recipe for Bacon and Tomato Sauce with Rice that caught my eye.

I had never heard of this dish before, but the ingredients seemed simple enough: bacon, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and rice. It sounded like a comforting and hearty meal, perfect for a family dinner. I knew I had to give it a try.

As I read through the recipe, memories flooded back to me of my mother standing in the kitchen, apron tied around her waist, humming a tune as she chopped vegetables and stirred pots on the stove. She was a wonderful cook, and I had learned many of my cooking skills from her.

But this particular recipe was unfamiliar to me, and I wondered where it had come from. I knew that my mother had a knack for collecting recipes from friends and neighbors, so it was possible that this one had been passed down to her from someone else.

Curiosity piqued, I decided to make the Bacon and Tomato Sauce with Rice for dinner that night. I gathered the ingredients and set to work, slicing the bacon into thin strips and sautéing them until they were crispy. The smell of sizzling bacon filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Next, I added chopped onions and garlic to the pan, letting them cook until they were soft and fragrant. Then, I poured in a can of diced tomatoes and let the mixture simmer on the stove, allowing the flavors to meld together.

While the sauce bubbled away, I cooked a pot of rice on the side, fluffing it with a fork once it was done. Finally, I spooned the Bacon and Tomato Sauce over the rice, garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color.

As I took my first bite of the dish, I was transported back in time to my mother's kitchen. The flavors were rich and savory, the bacon adding a smoky depth to the sweet tomatoes and onions. It was a simple yet delicious meal, one that I knew would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Since that day, I have made Bacon and Tomato Sauce with Rice countless times, each batch bringing back memories of my mother and the joy of discovering a new recipe. I have shared the dish with friends and family, passing on the recipe to anyone who asks.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day when I found the recipe in my mother's old recipe box, I realize how much cooking has shaped my life. It has connected me to my past, allowing me to carry on the traditions and flavors of those who came before me.

So, the next time you find a new recipe that intrigues you, don't hesitate to give it a try. You never know where it might lead you or what memories it might evoke. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body; it's about feeding the soul and preserving the stories of those who have gone before us. And for that, I am forever grateful.