Description
Louisiana Dirty Rice is a classic Cajun dish featuring fluffy long-grain white rice cooked with savory ground pork or beef, chicken livers, and the aromatic ‘Holy Trinity’ of bell peppers, celery, and onions. Perfectly seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, and Cajun spices, this dish delivers rich, bold flavors that reflect authentic southern Louisiana comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1/2 pound ground pork or ground beef
- 1/2 cup chicken livers, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes or until the rice is tender and fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit covered.
- Brown Meat and Chicken Livers: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground pork or beef. If using chicken livers, finely chop them and add to the skillet as well. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Holy Trinity: To the same skillet with the cooked meat, add the chopped bell peppers, celery, and onions. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
- Add Seasonings and Mix: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, and Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Then add the cooked rice to the skillet and gently fold everything together, ensuring the rice is well coated with the seasoning and mixed evenly with the meat and vegetables.
- Simmer and Serve: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions before serving warm.
Notes
- Using chicken livers is optional but gives a traditional, authentic flavor to the dish.
- Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning to taste based on your heat preference.
- For a vegan version, substitute the meat and chicken livers with plant-based ground meat or mushrooms.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave.
