Dirty Rice

Ingredients

4 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons flour
1 pound lean ground pork
1/2 pound chicken livers, cleaned and coarsely chopped
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 pound chicken gizzards, cleaned
1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
Salt and pepper
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1/2 cup finely-chopped green onions
4 cups cooked rice

Instructions

In a small heavy saucepan heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over medium heat and whisk in flour. Cook, whisking constantly, until roux thickens and darkens to a mahogany color; do not let burn. When well-colored, remove from heat. In a large heavy skillet heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat and brown ground pork, stirring and breaking up pieces. Add chicken livers, onions, bell pepper and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.

Meanwhile, in a large pot bring gizzards and enough cold water to cover (about 3 cups), to a boil over high heat. Boil until tender, about 30 minutes; drain, reserving stock and gizzards separately. Grind gizzards in food processor and add to pork and vegetable mixture, with roux, reserved stock and Creole seasoning; season to taste with salt and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil, cover and reduce heat to simmering. Cook about 30 minutes, until flavors are well-blended.

Before serving, add parsley, green onions and rice, mixing gently but thoroughly to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Yield: 4 servings