This traditional Louisiana Dirty Rice recipe brings the rich and savory flavors of the South to your table. Perfect for celebrations, holidays, or a comforting family dinner, this versatile dish combines ground meats, the Holy Trinity of vegetables, and a blend of spices, resulting in a hearty and flavorful meal that's sure to impress.
Prepare the Rice: Cook the rice according to package instructions and set aside.
Brown the Meat: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, pork, and optional chicken livers. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon.
Add the Vegetables: Stir in the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Season: Add paprika, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Combine with Rice: Fold in the cooked rice until well combined with the meat and vegetable mixture. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until everything is heated through.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm
Notes
Vegetarian Variation: For a vegetarian version, substitute the meats with a mix of lentils and finely chopped mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Storage: Leftover Dirty Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth or water if necessary to keep it moist.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference for heat.