Hugh Acheson gives this rustic, satisfying pilau (a variant of pilaf) nice depth of flavor by adding charred jalapeño and bacon. Slideshow: Rice Pilaf Recipes
How to Make It
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water and a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cover and cook over low heat until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and let stand for 15 minutes; fluff with a fork.
Meanwhile, roast the red pepper and jalapeño directly over a gas flame or under a preheated broiler, turning, until charred all over. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let cool. Peel, seed and stem the peppers, then finely chop the red pepper and mince the jalapeño.
In a large, deep skillet, melt the butter. Add the shrimp and cook over moderately high heat, stirring, until nearly cooked through, about 2 minutes; transfer to a plate.
Wipe out the skillet and heat the olive oil in it. Add the bacon and onion and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until the bacon fat is rendered and the onion is softened, about 10 minutes. Add the shrimp, garlic, red pepper and jalapeño and cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp is white throughout, about 5 minutes. Stir in the pimentón, cayenne and vinegar, then fold in the rice and parsley. Season the pilau with salt and serve.
