Yields: 6 servings Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground pork (or a mix of pork and beef)
- 1/2 pound chicken livers (optional, but traditional)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment:
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Medium saucepan
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meats:
- If using chicken livers, chop them finely.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground pork and chicken livers (if using) over medium-high heat, breaking them up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Add Seasonings and Rice:
- Stir in the Creole seasoning, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Add the rice and stir to coat it with the seasonings and meat mixture.
- Add Broth and Simmer:
- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff and Serve:
- Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.
- Serve hot.
Tips and Variations:
- Meat Variations: You can use andouille sausage, ground beef, or a combination of meats.
- Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as diced tomatoes or mushrooms.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking.
- Liver Substitution: If you don’t like chicken livers, you can omit them or use a small amount of beef liver.
- Broth: Beef broth can also be used.
- Rice: Ensure you use a long grained rice.