Barbecue Pork Rice Bake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon black tea powder
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 lb pork shoulder or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or colby-jack cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Black Tea Marinade:
- In a small bowl, mix the black tea powder with the boiling water. Allow the tea to steep for 3-4 minutes, then strain and let it cool. This mixture will be used to marinate the pork.
Marinate the Pork:
- Place the pork cubes in a shallow dish and pour the cooled black tea marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours.
Prepare the Rice Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the marinated pork, discarding the marinade, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Add the barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, and ground cumin to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Assemble the Dish:
- In the prepared baking dish, spread a layer of cooked rice. Top with the pork and sauce mixture, and then add the frozen peas and carrots, spreading them evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
Bake the Rice Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Remove the rice bake from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
- Enjoy your Barbecue Pork Rice Bake, a hearty and flavorful one-dish meal with a hint of black tea flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering. The tender pork and smoky barbecue sauce create a delicious and satisfying combination with the comforting rice and vegetables.