Cajun Fried Rice
Bring a taste of the Bayou to your dinner table with our Cajun Fried Rice. This isn't your average fried rice; it starts by toasting the grains to golden perfection before simmering them with the "Holy Trinity" of Cajun cooking—green pepper, onion, and celery. Packed with savory pork and a hint of cumin, this one-skillet meal is hearty, smoky, and full of Southern character.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Yield |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Minutes | 25 Minutes | 6 Servings |
Ingredients
- The Grains: 2 cups Uncooked long grain rice, 3 tbsp Canola oil.
- The Holy Trinity: 1 medium Green pepper (diced), 1 small Onion (chopped), 1 Celery rib (thinly sliced).
- Liquid Gold: 2 1/4 cups Water, 1 can (14.5 oz) Chicken broth.
- Seasoning & Veggies: 1 medium Tomato (diced), 1 1/2 tsp Salt, 1/2 tsp Ground cumin, 1/4 tsp Pepper.
- The Protein: 1 cup Cubed cooked pork.
Instructions
- Toast the Rice: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the uncooked rice and sauté, stirring frequently, until the grains are lightly browned and fragrant.
- Sauté the Trinity: Add the green pepper, onion, and celery to the skillet. Continue to sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Simmer: Stir in the water, chicken broth, diced tomato, salt, cumin, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil.
- Slow Cook: Reduce the heat to low; cover the skillet tightly and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Finish: Gently fold in the cubed cooked pork. Heat through for another minute or two, fluff with a fork, and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | 315 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
Pro Tips for Cajun Success
- Don't Skip the Toast: Browning the dry rice in oil before adding liquid creates a nutty depth of flavor that defines this dish.
- The Pork: This is a great way to use leftover roast pork or even thick-cut ham. Ensure the cubes are small enough to get some in every bite.
- Spice it Up: If you like heat, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to give it that extra Cajun "kick."
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use brown rice instead?
A: You can, but you will need to increase the liquid by about 1/2 cup and the simmering time to 40-45 minutes.
A: You can, but you will need to increase the liquid by about 1/2 cup and the simmering time to 40-45 minutes.
Q: What can I use instead of pork?
A: Andouille sausage is a classic Cajun alternative, or you can use leftover rotisserie chicken.
A: Andouille sausage is a classic Cajun alternative, or you can use leftover rotisserie chicken.

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