Rice Pilaf with Peas: A Classic Family Favorite
Discover the heartwarming taste of Rice Pilaf with Peas, a beloved recipe thatโs been passed down from my grandmother and has become a cherished favorite of my husband. This delightful side dish, with its unique flavor enhanced by crispy bacon, is perfect for pairing with chicken or fish. Easy to prepare and full of comforting flavors, it makes an excellent addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 4-6 strips of bacon, diced
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
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Prepare the Bacon: Begin by dicing the bacon into small pieces. Place the bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon until itโs crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain it on a paper towel to remove excess fat. Set aside.
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Reduce the Drippings: After removing the bacon, drain all but 1/4 cup of the bacon drippings from the skillet. This will leave just enough flavor to cook the onions.
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Cook the Onions: In the same skillet, add the chopped onions to the remaining bacon drippings. Sautรฉ the onions over medium heat until they become translucent and tender, which should take about 5 minutes.
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Add Rice and Peas: Stir in the uncooked long grain rice and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to slightly toast and absorb the flavors. Add the thawed peas, chicken broth, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
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Simmer the Pilaf: Cover the skillet with a lid and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
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Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Gently fold in the crispy bacon crumbles you set aside earlier. Give the pilaf a good stir to ensure the bacon is evenly distributed throughout the dish. Serve the pilaf immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 246.8
- Fat: 4.4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.4 g
- Cholesterol: 5.4 mg
- Sodium: 563.6 mg
- Carbohydrates: 43.3 g
- Fiber: 2.4 g
- Sugar: 2.6 g
- Protein: 7.3 g
This Rice Pilaf with Peas is not only delicious but also a quick and easy recipe, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special family dinners. The bacon adds a delightful savory touch that complements the rice and peas perfectly, creating a side dish thatโs both flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy this recipe and let it bring a touch of homey comfort to your table!
