Green Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cups rice, raw
- 2/3 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup green onion tops
- 1/2 cup parsley, minced
- 1/4 cup corn oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tbsp red pepper
- 2 cups beef or chicken bouillon or 2 cups water and 6 bouillon cubes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Put all ingredients together into a pot or rice cooker.
- Cover and cook 30 minutes, or until rice is done and liquid is absorbed. Works great in your rice cooker.
Common Problems and Solutions
Q: Why is my rice mushy or undercooked?
A: Make sure you're using the right liquid-to-rice ratio. If using long-grain rice, 2 cups of rice needs about 4 cups of liquid total, but the recipe calls for only 2 cups bouillon - you may need to adjust. Check your rice cooker manual or add more liquid if needed.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A: Fresh herbs are really what make this dish special and give it the bright green color. Dried herbs will change both the appearance and flavor significantly. If you must substitute, use about 1/3 the amount of dried herbs.
Tips and Techniques
For best results, use long-grain white rice. Chop the parsley and green onion tops just before adding to keep them bright green. If cooking on the stovetop instead of a rice cooker, bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes without lifting the lid.
Ingredient Substitutions
- corn oil: vegetable oil, canola oil, or olive oil
- beef or chicken bouillon: low-sodium broth or homemade stock
- green onion tops: regular green onions (scallions), white and green parts chopped
Equipment Needed
- rice cooker (optional but recommended)
- heavy-bottomed pot with lid (if not using rice cooker)
- cutting board
- sharp knife
Historical Context
Green rice is a Louisiana side dish that showcases the Cajun love of fresh herbs and vegetables. It’s a lighter alternative to dirty rice or rice dressing, perfect for serving alongside rich meats and gravies.
