Cajun Dirty Rice

A bold and flavorful Southern classic made with rice, ground meat, and Cajun spices, finished with the “holy trinity” of onion, celery, and bell pepper. Served in a bowl, garnished with scallions, and paired with sautéed greens on the side.

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Ingredients:

For the Dirty Rice:

• 250g long-grain white rice

• 400g ground pork or beef (or a mix)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 1 celery stalk, finely diced

• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• 500ml chicken broth

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• 2 scallions, sliced (for garnish)

• 200g sautéed greens (spinach, kale, or collard greens)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Meat and Vegetables
   Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Stir in onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.
2. Add Rice and Seasonings
   Stir in rice, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the rice with spices and aromatics.
3. Simmer
   Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
4. Serve
   Spoon dirty rice into bowls, garnish with scallions, and serve with sautéed greens on the side.

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Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 520 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 48 g

• Fat: 22 g

• Protein: 30 g