Chili Rice and Franks

Chili Rice and Franks Recipe from USA - Onion, Bell Pepper, Rice, Tomatoes, and More!

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chili Rice and Franks is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of chili, rice, and frankfurters. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in.

History

Chili Rice and Franks is a classic American dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a simple and affordable meal that is easy to make and full of flavor.

Ingredients

1 cup of chopped onion
0.5 cup of diced green bell pepper
2 tbsp of butter or margarine
3 cups of hot cooked rice
1 cup of canned tomatoes
1 tsp of salt
1 tsp of sugar
0.5 to 1 tsp of chili powder
0.5 tsp of garlic powder
1 lb (454 g) of frankfurters

How to prepare

Cook the onion and green pepper in butter until they are tender. Then, add the rice, tomatoes, salt, sugar, chili powder, and garlic powder.
Spoon the mixture into a buttered 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole dish.
Using a sharp knife, score the frankfurters by cutting almost through them.
Arrange several frankfurters over the top of the rice mixture. Place the remaining frankfurters in a well-buttered dish or pan.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes.

Variations

Add beans or corn to the rice mixture for added texture and flavor.
Use turkey or chicken sausages instead of frankfurters for a lighter option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onion and green pepper until they are tender to bring out their flavors.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences.

- Score the frankfurters before baking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chili Rice and Franks with a side of cornbread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the main cooking technique used in this recipe, but you can also prepare the dish on the stovetop if preferred.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of sausage or hot dogs in place of frankfurters. You can also use olive oil instead of margarine for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake with the frankfurters.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chili Rice and Franks in individual bowls garnished with chopped parsley or shredded cheese for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chili Rice and Franks pairs well with a cold beer or a glass of iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Chili Rice and Franks contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

The main sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the rice and tomatoes. One serving of Chili Rice and Franks contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this dish come from the margarine used for cooking. One serving of Chili Rice and Franks contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

The main source of protein in this dish is the frankfurters. One serving of Chili Rice and Franks contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chili Rice and Franks is a good source of vitamin C from the tomatoes and bell peppers. It also contains iron and potassium from the frankfurters.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and soy from the frankfurters. It may also contain dairy if butter is used instead of margarine.

Summary

Chili Rice and Franks is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chili Rice and Franks is a comforting and flavorful dish that is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner. Enjoy the combination of chili, rice, and frankfurters in this classic American recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Chili Rice and Franks. It was during a trip to visit my Aunt Mabel in the bustling city of Chicago. It was a cold, dreary day and as soon as I stepped into her cozy kitchen, the aroma of simmering chili filled the air.

Aunt Mabel was a fantastic cook and she had a knack for creating dishes that were both comforting and delicious. As I watched her effortlessly chop vegetables and brown the ground beef, I couldn't help but be in awe of her culinary skills. I asked her what she was making and she smiled and said, "Chili Rice and Franks, a family favorite."

I had never heard of such a dish before, but as I watched her add in the spices and let the chili simmer on the stove, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. Aunt Mabel generously shared her recipe with me, explaining each step in detail and even giving me some tips on how to make it my own.

After that trip, I couldn't wait to get back home and try my hand at making Chili Rice and Franks. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work, following Aunt Mabel's instructions to the letter. As the chili bubbled away on the stove, filling my kitchen with its rich, spicy scent, I felt a sense of accomplishment wash over me.

When it was finally ready, I ladled a generous portion of chili over a bed of fluffy rice and topped it with sliced franks. The first bite brought me right back to Aunt Mabel's kitchen, and I knew I had found a new family favorite.

Over the years, I have made Chili Rice and Franks countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. Sometimes I add in extra veggies, other times I play around with different spices. Each time I make it, I think of Aunt Mabel and the wonderful memories we shared in her kitchen that day.

As I grew older, I continued to collect recipes from friends, family, and cookbooks, always eager to try something new. But no matter how many recipes I gathered, Chili Rice and Franks remained a staple in my repertoire. It was a dish that never failed to bring me comfort and joy, no matter what the occasion.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of simmering chili and the memories of loved ones past, I am reminded of the power of food to bring us together. And I am grateful for all the recipes and stories that have been passed down to me over the years, each one a cherished reminder of the love and connection that food can bring.