Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice Recipe - Ingredients & Instructions

Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice

Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice Recipe - Ingredients & Instructions
Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice
Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice

Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice is a delicious and unique dish that combines the sweetness of brown sugar and honey with the savory flavors of mustard and cloves. This recipe is perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting in the kitchen.

History

This recipe has its roots in traditional Kentucky cuisine, where sugar-cured meats and sweet side dishes are a staple. The combination of sweet and savory flavors in this dish is a nod to the rich culinary history of the region.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Cook the onion in butter until it becomes soft.
  2. Add the brown sugar and heat until it melts.
  3. Combine the mustard, honey, salt, cloves, pepper, rice, pecans, and raisins; heat thoroughly.
  4. Serve with slices of smoked ham.

Variations

  • Add cooked bacon or sausage for a meatier version of this dish.
  • Swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onions until they are soft and translucent to bring out their natural sweetness.

- Make sure to heat the brown sugar until it melts completely to create a smooth and rich sauce.

- Toasting the pecans before adding them to the dish will enhance their nutty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice as a side dish with smoked ham or grilled chicken for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the onions slowly and over low heat to bring out their natural sweetness.

- Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- If you don't have golden raisins, regular raisins or dried cranberries will work just as well.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice mixture ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice in a decorative serving dish garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra pecans for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

This dish is a great source of carbohydrates, with the rice, brown sugar, and honey providing a good amount of energy for your body.

Fats

The margarine and pecans in this recipe add a delicious richness and a good amount of healthy fats to the dish.

Proteins

While this dish is not high in protein, you can easily add some by serving it with slices of smoked ham or grilled chicken.

Vitamins and minerals

The onions in this recipe provide a good amount of vitamins C and B6, while the pecans are a great source of vitamin E and minerals like magnesium and zinc.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (pecans) and dairy (margarine), so be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a balanced and flavorful option for a meal, providing a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice is a delicious and unique dish that combines sweet and savory flavors for a truly memorable meal. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, this recipe is a great option for a satisfying and flavorful dinner.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one I won't soon forget. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the small town of Lexington, Kentucky. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious cooking, had passed down many of her recipes to my mother and me. But this one was different. It was a secret recipe that had been passed down through generations in our family, and I was determined to learn how to make it.

I remember the day I found the recipe like it was yesterday. My grandmother had been in the kitchen all morning, preparing a feast for a family gathering we were hosting that evening. The smell of fried chicken, cornbread, and biscuits filled the air, making my mouth water with anticipation. As I helped her set the table, I noticed a small, worn notebook tucked away in the corner of the kitchen counter. Curious, I picked it up and flipped through the pages.

To my surprise, I found a handwritten recipe for Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice. My grandmother had never mentioned this dish before, and I was intrigued. The recipe called for simple ingredients: rice, sugar, butter, and milk. But it was the method of preparation that caught my eye. The rice had to be soaked in sugar water overnight, then cooked slowly on the stovetop until it was creamy and sweet.

I knew I had to learn how to make this dish. I asked my grandmother about the recipe, but she simply smiled and told me it was a family secret that had been passed down for generations. She agreed to teach me how to make it, but only if I promised to keep the recipe to myself.

That night, after the family had gone home and the dishes had been washed, my grandmother and I sat down at the kitchen table. She took out the notebook and began to teach me the recipe, step by step. I watched as she measured out the rice, sugar, and milk, and soaked the rice in sugar water overnight. The next day, we cooked the rice slowly on the stovetop, stirring constantly until it was thick and creamy.

As we sat down to eat the finished dish, I couldn't believe how delicious it was. The rice was sweet and creamy, with a hint of butter that melted in your mouth. I asked my grandmother where she had learned to make this dish, but she simply smiled and said it had been passed down through the generations in our family.

Since that day, I have made Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice countless times for my own family and friends. Each time I cook it, I think of my grandmother and the special bond we shared in the kitchen. This recipe is more than just a dish to me – it's a connection to my family's past and a reminder of the love and traditions that have been passed down through the years.

I am grateful to my grandmother for sharing this recipe with me, and I will always treasure the memories we made in the kitchen together. As I pass this recipe down to future generations, I know that it will continue to bring joy and comfort to those who taste it. Kentucky Sugar-cured Rice will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the love and legacy of my family.

Categories

| American Recipes | Pecan Recipes | Raisin Recipes | Rice Recipes | Side Dish Rice Recipes |

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