This dirty brown rice with shrimp is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, bringing together the heartiness of brown rice with the savory goodness of shrimp and ground beef. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is both filling and nutritious, offering a rustic taste that will transport you straight to the bayou.
Photos of Dirty Brown Rice with Shrimp Recipe
While most ingredients in this recipe should be familiar, you may need to pick up a few items at the supermarket. Bay leaves, cayenne pepper, and paprika are common spices, but not always found in every pantry. Additionally, scallions and medium shrimp are fresh items that may require a special trip to the store.
Ingredients For Dirty Brown Rice With Shrimp
Brown rice: A whole grain that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
Chicken bouillon cube: Adds a concentrated chicken flavor to the rice.
Bay leaves: Provide a subtle, herbal flavor to the dish.
Cayenne: Adds a spicy kick to the recipe.
Paprika: Offers a sweet and smoky flavor to the dish.
Thyme: A fragrant herb that adds depth to the flavor profile.
Oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and meat.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
Celery: Contributes a fresh, crunchy texture.
Green pepper: Adds a slight bitterness and crunch.
Garlic: Provides a pungent, aromatic flavor.
Lean ground beef: Adds protein and a savory richness.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
Fresh pepper: Adds a sharp, spicy flavor.
Medium shrimp: Adds a sweet, delicate seafood flavor.
Scallions: Used as a fresh garnish to finish the dish.
One reader, Justin Poe says:
This dirty brown rice with shrimp is a flavor-packed delight! The blend of spices, tender shrimp, and hearty brown rice creates a perfect harmony. The dish is both comforting and satisfying, making it an instant favorite in our household. Highly recommend for a delicious and wholesome meal!
Cooking Techniques for Dirty Brown Rice With Shrimp
How to cook brown rice: Follow the package directions for cooking brown rice, typically involving rinsing the rice, boiling water, and simmering until tender. How to sauté vegetables: Heat oil in a pan, add chopped vegetables, and cook on medium-low heat until they are soft and slightly caramelized. How to brown ground beef: Cook ground beef in a pan over medium heat until it is fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. How to cook shrimp: Add shrimp to the pan, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. How to combine ingredients: Mix the cooked rice with the sautéed beef and shrimp, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
How To Make Dirty Brown Rice with Shrimp
Turn your brown rice into a winning meal by cooking it Cajun style and putting on lean ground beef and shrimps! This dirty brown rice is simply the best.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cupsbrown rice,uncooked
- Chicken bouillon cube
- 2bay leaves,divided
- ⅛tspcayenne,plus ¼ tsp, divided
- ⅛tsppaprika,plus ½ tsp
- ⅛tspthyme,plus ½ tsp
- 1tspoil
- 1onion,diced
- 2celery,diced
- 1green pepper,diced
- 1garlic clove,minced
- ½lblean ground beef
- Salt and fresh pepper,to taste
- 1lbmedium shrimp,peeled and deveined
- 2scallions,chopped
Instructions
-
Cook brown rice according to package directions in water along with chicken bouillon, 1 bay leaf, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ⅛ teaspoon each of cayenne, paprika, and thyme.
-
When the rice is almost done cooking, heat a large heavy saucepan on medium-low heat.
-
Add the oil, onions, green pepper, celery, bay leaf, and garlic. Sauté on medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, until soft.
-
Add beef, salt, black pepper, remaining paprika, thyme and cayenne pepper.
-
Sauté, for about 10-15 minutes, until brown; add shrimp, cover and cook for 5 more minutes.
-
When the rice is done, toss with beef and shrimp; combine well. Top with scallions and serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 426.56kcal
- Fat: 12.81g
- Saturated Fat: 4.16g
- Trans Fat: 0.56g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.42g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.44g
- Carbohydrates: 50.66g
- Fiber: 3.49g
- Sugar: 1.99g
- Protein: 25.96g
- Cholesterol: 147.13mg
- Sodium: 1713.51mg
- Calcium: 110.83mg
- Potassium: 547.83mg
- Iron: 2.65mg
- Vitamin A: 64.87µg
- Vitamin C: 22.59mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Dirty Brown Rice With Shrimp
To enhance the flavor of your shrimp, consider marinating them in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic for about 15-20 minutes before adding them to the dish. This will infuse the shrimp with a zesty, aromatic taste that complements the dirty brown rice perfectly.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the onion, celery, green pepper, and garlic ahead of time and store them in airtight containers.
Use pre-cooked rice: Opt for pre-cooked brown rice to cut down on cooking time.
Buy peeled shrimp: Purchase pre-peeled and deveined shrimp to save on prep time.
Cook in batches: Cook the ground beef and shrimp simultaneously in separate pans to speed up the process.
Utilize a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop vegetables.
Substitute Ingredients For Dirty Brown Rice with Shrimp Recipe
brown rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa has a similar texture and is high in protein, making it a nutritious alternative.
chicken bouillon cube - Substitute with vegetable bouillon cube: This provides a similar depth of flavor while keeping the dish vegetarian.
bay leaves - Substitute with thyme: Thyme offers a similar earthy flavor that complements the dish well.
cayenne - Substitute with red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes provide a similar level of heat and spice.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the dish while maintaining the same color and flavor profile.
thyme - Substitute with oregano: Oregano has a similar herbaceous flavor that works well in savory dishes.
oil - Substitute with butter: Butter adds a rich flavor and can be used for sautéing vegetables.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can enhance the dish.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel provides a similar crunch and a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor.
green pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers are sweeter and add a vibrant color to the dish.
garlic clove - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor when fresh garlic is not available.
lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option that still provides a similar texture and flavor.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty, umami flavor that can enhance the dish.
fresh pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used as a direct substitute.
medium shrimp - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great vegetarian alternative that absorbs flavors well.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.
Presenting Dirty Brown Rice With Shrimp
Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the dirty brown rice with shrimp in a refined, minimalist portion. Use a ring mold to shape the brown rice mixture into a neat, compact circle on the plate.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped scallions and a sprinkle of paprika around the plate for a pop of color and elegance.
Highlight key ingredients: Arrange the shrimp prominently on top of the brown rice mixture, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Add texture contrast: Include a small side of crispy celery leaves or a green pepper julienne salad to provide a fresh, crunchy contrast to the warm, savory rice and shrimp.
Use high-quality plates: Serve the dish on a pristine white plate with a wide rim to frame the food beautifully and draw attention to the intricate details of the presentation.
Incorporate height: Stack the shrimp slightly on top of each other to add height and dimension to the dish, creating a more dynamic and visually interesting presentation.
Drizzle with sauce: Lightly drizzle a complementary sauce, such as a garlic butter sauce, around the plate to enhance the flavors and add a touch of sophistication.
Add a fresh herb garnish: Place a small sprig of fresh thyme or a few leaves of parsley on top of the shrimp for a final touch of color and freshness.
Essential Tools for Making Brown Rice and Shrimp
Large heavy saucepan: Used for sautéing the vegetables, browning the beef, and cooking the shrimp.
Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking the brown rice with the chicken bouillon and spices.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the brown rice and spices.
Measuring spoons: Essential for measuring small quantities of spices like cayenne, paprika, and thyme.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the vegetables, beef, and shrimp to ensure even cooking.
Chef's knife: Used for chopping the onion, celery, green pepper, garlic, and scallions.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping all the vegetables and garlic.
Lid: Needed to cover the saucepan when cooking the shrimp to retain moisture and heat.
Mixing bowl: Useful for tossing the cooked rice with the beef and shrimp mixture.
Tongs: Handy for handling the shrimp while cooking.
Colander: Useful for rinsing the shrimp before cooking.
Spatula: Helps in scraping down the sides of the saucepan and mixing ingredients thoroughly.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Dirty Brown Rice With Shrimp
- Let the dirty brown rice with shrimp cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
- If you want to freeze the dish, transfer the cooled dirty brown rice with shrimp to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification later.
- When stored properly in the freezer, the dirty brown rice with shrimp will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat the frozen dish, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, transfer the contents to a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave until it's heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until it's warmed through.
- If you find that the reheated dirty brown rice with shrimp is a bit dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help moisten it and restore its texture.
- For best results, consume the reheated dish within 1-2 days of thawing. Do not refreeze the dish once it has been thawed, as this can lead to a decline in quality and potential food safety issues.
How To Reheat Leftover Dirty Brown Rice With Shrimp
The best way to reheat leftover dirty brown rice with shrimp is to use a microwave or a stovetop. These methods ensure that the rice and shrimp are heated through without drying out or becoming rubbery.
To reheat in the microwave, place the desired amount of dirty brown rice with shrimp in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the rice from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice and shrimp are heated through.
If you prefer to use the stovetop, place the leftover dirty brown rice with shrimp in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help moisten the rice and prevent it from sticking. Stir the rice and shrimp frequently, breaking up any clumps, until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil to the rice while reheating. This will help to revive the flavors and keep the rice moist.
If you find that the reheated dirty brown rice with shrimp is a bit dry, you can sprinkle a little water or chicken broth over the top and stir it in. This will help to rehydrate the rice and improve its texture.
To add a fresh twist to your leftover dirty brown rice with shrimp, consider stirring in some chopped green onions, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. These bright, fresh flavors will help to liven up the dish and make it taste like new.
Interesting Trivia About Dirty Brown Rice With Shrimp
A unique aspect of this dirty brown rice with shrimp recipe is its blend of Cajun spices like cayenne, paprika, and thyme, which infuse the dish with a rich, smoky flavor.
Budget-Friendly: Making Dirty Brown Rice With Shrimp at Home
This dirty brown rice with shrimp recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using brown rice and a mix of vegetables like onions, green pepper, and celery, along with lean ground beef and shrimp, it provides a nutritious and filling meal. The use of a chicken bouillon cube and spices like cayenne, paprika, and thyme adds flavor without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost: $20-$25 for a household of 4 people.
Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This dirty brown rice with shrimp recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Let's break it down:
Healthy elements:
- Brown rice is a nutritious, whole grain option rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Shrimp is a lean protein source low in calories and high in beneficial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids
- Vegetables like onions, celery, green pepper, and garlic provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Unhealthy elements:
- The recipe calls for lean ground beef, which can still be high in saturated fat and calories
- The use of oil for sautéing adds extra fat and calories to the dish
- The chicken bouillon cube and added salt may contribute to a higher sodium content
While the recipe incorporates some healthy ingredients, there's room for improvement to make it even more nutritious.
- Swap the lean ground beef for a leaner protein option like ground turkey or chicken, or opt for a plant-based alternative like crumbled tofu or tempeh
- Reduce the amount of oil used for sautéing, or consider using a healthier option like olive oil or avocado oil
- Use low-sodium chicken broth instead of a bouillon cube to reduce the dish's salt content
- Increase the variety and amount of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding diced carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrients and fiber
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance flavor without relying on excess salt, such as oregano, basil, or smoked paprika
- Consider using a mix of brown and wild rice for added texture and nutritional benefits
Editor's Opinion on Dirty Brown Rice With Shrimp
This recipe for dirty brown rice with shrimp is a flavorful and balanced dish, combining the earthiness of brown rice with the savory depth of ground beef and the delicate sweetness of shrimp. The use of spices like cayenne, paprika, and thyme adds a nice kick and complexity. The inclusion of vegetables like onion, celery, and green pepper provides a good texture contrast and nutritional boost. However, consider using low-sodium chicken bouillon to control salt levels. Overall, it's a hearty, satisfying meal that's relatively easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Enhance Your Dirty Brown Rice with Shrimp Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try Instead of Dirty Brown Rice With Shrimp
Ideal Starters and Sweets to Serve With Dirty Brown Rice With Shrimp
Why trust this Dirty Brown Rice with Shrimp Recipe:
This recipe for dirty brown rice with shrimp is a must-try because it combines the rich flavors of lean ground beef and succulent shrimp with the wholesome goodness of brown rice. The addition of aromatic spices like cayenne, paprika, and thyme ensures a depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. The fresh vegetables add a delightful crunch, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying. Trust this recipe for a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Copycat El Pollo Loco Rice Recipe
Bojangles’ Dirty Rice Bowl Recipe
Lentil “Dirty Rice” Recipe
Rack of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary Recipe
Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe
Goat Cheese and Arugula Pizza Recipe
Salmon Fajitas Recipe
Pinto Posole Recipe
Mango Habanero Glazed Chicken Recipe
Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe
Pork and Bacon Sliders Recipe
