Okra Pilau: A Flavorful Coastal Delight
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Recipe Category: Long Grain Rice
Keywords: Pork, Rice, Meat, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, < 60 Mins, Stove Top
Pilau (pronounced pih-LOW) is a delightful dish hailing from the coastal regions of South Carolina, where the vibrant flavors of the South meld beautifully with hearty ingredients. This recipe for Okra Pilau incorporates long-grain rice and features a rich combination of bacon and fresh vegetables, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this pilau is an excellent choice for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion with family and friends.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bacon | 8 slices |
| Fresh Okra | 1 ½ cups |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Green Bell Pepper | 1 medium |
| Long-Grain Rice | 1 ½ cups |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Water | 2 cups |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 403 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 14.5 mg |
| Sodium | 313.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 67.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3 g |
| Sugars | 4.7 g |
| Protein | 11.3 g |
Instructions
-
Fry the Bacon:
Begin by heating a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the slices of bacon to the skillet and cook until they are crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease, and be sure to reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings in the skillet. Discard any remaining drippings, but do not clean the skillet, as the residual flavor will enhance the dish. -
Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, with the reserved bacon drippings still hot, add the fresh okra, chopped onion, and diced green bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables over medium-high heat for approximately 5 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. -
Incorporate the Rice:
Once the vegetables have softened, add the long-grain rice to the skillet. Stir the rice into the vegetable mixture, allowing it to absorb the flavors. Then, add the appropriate amount of salt and pepper to taste, and pour in 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. -
Simmer the Pilau:
After reaching a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. During this time, the water will be absorbed, and the rice will become tender. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this will release steam and may affect the cooking process. -
Finish and Serve:
Once the rice has cooked and the water has been absorbed, remove the skillet from the heat. Crumble the reserved bacon and stir it into the pilau mixture, allowing it to combine beautifully with the rice and vegetables. For best results, let the pilau sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Enjoy:
After resting, fluff the pilau with a fork and serve it warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty meal. The combination of textures from the okra and bacon, along with the savory flavor of the rice, creates an unforgettable dining experience.
Okra Pilau not only encapsulates the essence of Southern cooking but also stands as a comforting and nutritious dish that can easily become a staple in your kitchen. With its quick preparation and delicious flavors, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you are hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home. Dive into the world of flavors with this delightful pilau, and savor each comforting bite!
