I think you'll understand why I love rice dishes so much when you taste this one—the robust, complex red-chile flavor is infused into plump rice grains (you definitely get the best texture from medium-grain rice), which are nestled around perfectly cooked shrimp. Not only could I eat this dish day after day, but it's one that always comes to mind as an easily likable one-pot main dish for casual entertaining. Add a salad and you've got all you need.
To serve Red Chile Rice on a buffet, you may want to choose small shrimp and peel them completely (taking off the final joint and tail) for the convenience of your guests. Don't forget to mix everything well before serving, since bits of salsa and green onions rise to the top during baking.
Recipe information
Yield
Serves 6
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Heat the oven to 350 degrees. In a 3-quart ovenproof saucepan, cook the bacon over medium heat, stirring, until crispy and brown, about 5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving behind the fat (you'll need a generous tablespoon to fry the rice). Set the crisp bacon aside. Add the rice to the pan and cook, stirring, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
Step 2
Add the salsa and stir for 1 minute, then add the broth, salt and green onions. Bring to a boil, stir once, cover tightly and bake for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven.
Step 3
Uncover and lay the shrimp on top of the rice mixture; re-cover and bake until the shrimp is opaque, 7 to 10 minutes. Sprinkle with the cilantro and crispy bacon, mix everything thoroughly with a fork and serve.
