Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering Creole rice dish that promises to transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Louisiana! This isn't just another rice recipe - it's a flavor-packed culinary adventure that combines crispy bacon, succulent prawns, and bold Creole seasonings. Imagine a skillet filled with perfectly toasted rice, golden bacon bits, and plump prawns that tell a story of rich cultural cuisine in every single bite. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a curious food lover, this recipe will become your new go-to comfort meal that's guaranteed to impress.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Creole
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 pound prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp and golden brown, rendering out the fat. Remove bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pan.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the bacon drippings. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become soft and slightly translucent.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add the long-grain rice to the skillet and stir to coat the rice with the bacon fat and vegetable mixture, toasting the rice for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle Creole seasoning over the rice. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the peeled and deveined prawns on top of the rice, covering them with the lid to steam.
- Once prawns are pink and cooked through and rice is tender, remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, gently mixing in the cooked bacon pieces.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Toast the rice in bacon fat to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent clumping
- Use fresh, high-quality prawns for the best taste and texture
- Don't rush the sautéing process - letting vegetables caramelize adds depth to the dish
- Keep the lid tightly sealed while cooking to ensure perfectly steamed rice
- Choose a Creole seasoning blend with a good balance of heat and herbs
- For extra richness, consider using homemade chicken broth
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together
- Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 220mg
