Red Rice II

Red Rice II Recipe: Bacon, Onion, Tomatoes, and Rice with a Kick

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

Introduction

Red Rice II is a flavorful and colorful dish that is perfect for a side dish or a main course. This recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the sweetness of tomatoes and onions, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Red Rice II is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is believed to have originated in the southern United States, where rice dishes are a staple of the cuisine. The addition of bacon and tomatoes gives this dish a unique twist that sets it apart from other rice recipes.

Ingredients

3 slices of bacon, diced
1 cup of chopped onion
1 cup of chopped tomatoes
1 cup of uncooked rice
0.5 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of ground black pepper
0.13 tsp of ground red pepper
2 tbsp of tomato paste

How to prepare

Cook the bacon in a small skillet over low heat until it is almost crisp. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside.
Pour the bacon drippings into a medium saucepan and cook the onion in the drippings until it turns golden.
Stir in the tomatoes, rice, salt, ground black and red peppers, and 1.75 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil and stir it once or twice.
Reduce the heat, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Blend the tomato paste with 1 tbsp of water.
Stir the tomato paste and the reserved bacon into the rice.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for extra heat.
Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter version of this dish.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the bacon until it is almost crisp to ensure that it adds a nice crunch to the dish.

- Stir the rice occasionally while it is simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences - add more or less salt, pepper, or red pepper depending on your preference for spiciness.

Serving Suggestions

Red Rice II can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a main course. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Red Rice II is to cook the bacon until it is almost crisp, then use the drippings to sauté the onions and tomatoes. This will infuse the dish with a rich, smoky flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have bacon on hand, you can use ham or sausage as a substitute. You can also use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes if they are not in season.

Make Ahead Tips

Red Rice II can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, then reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Red Rice II in a colorful bowl or on a decorative plate to showcase its vibrant colors. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Red Rice II pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, and roasted vegetables. It also goes well with a glass of white or red wine, depending on your preference.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Red Rice II contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Red Rice II contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Red Rice II contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Red Rice II contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Red Rice II is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains bacon, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Red Rice II is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a meal.

Summary

Red Rice II is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Red Rice II. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small village nestled in the hills of Italy. My grandmother, Nonna Maria, was the best cook in the entire village, and I would often spend hours watching her work her magic in the kitchen.

One day, while I was helping Nonna Maria prepare a feast for a family gathering, she pulled out a worn and tattered recipe book from the back of the cupboard. As she flipped through the pages, her eyes landed on a recipe for Red Rice II. I could see the excitement in her eyes as she read through the ingredients and instructions.

"This recipe has been passed down through our family for generations," Nonna Maria explained to me. "It's a special dish that we only make on special occasions."

I watched intently as Nonna Maria gathered the ingredients and began to prepare the dish. The rich aroma of tomatoes, garlic, and spices filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I could tell that this dish was going to be something truly special.

As the Red Rice II simmered on the stove, Nonna Maria sat me down at the kitchen table and began to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that the recipe had been passed down from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. Each generation had added their own twist to the recipe, making it unique to our family.

Nonna Maria shared with me how she had first learned to make the dish when she was a young girl, just like me. She had watched her own grandmother carefully measure out the ingredients, stir the pot with a loving touch, and patiently wait for the flavors to meld together. It was a labor of love, she explained, and one that she took great pride in passing down to me.

As we sat at the table, enjoying the delicious aroma of the Red Rice II wafting through the air, Nonna Maria shared more stories with me about her childhood and the traditions of our family. She told me about the importance of preserving our heritage through food, and how each recipe told a story of our ancestors and the struggles they had overcome.

I listened intently, absorbing every word and every detail of the recipe that Nonna Maria shared with me. I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire, a way to connect with my past and honor the traditions of my family.

When the Red Rice II was finally ready, Nonna Maria served it up in a large, colorful bowl and garnished it with fresh parsley. The flavors were rich and complex, each bite a symphony of spices and textures that danced on my tongue.

As I savored the dish, I knew that this recipe for Red Rice II would always hold a special place in my heart. It was more than just a meal; it was a connection to my past, a link to my ancestors, and a reminder of the love and care that went into every dish my family created.

And so, as I sit here now, many years later, preparing the same recipe for Red Rice II in my own kitchen, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the traditions that have been passed down to me. I know that with each bite I take, I am honoring the memories of my grandmother, Nonna Maria, and all those who came before her. And for that, I am truly grateful.