Crimbo Limbo Baked Rice with Turkey: A Nostalgic Leftover Transformation

During the cozy interlude between Christmas and New Year’s, affectionately known as “Crimbo Limbo,” many of us find ourselves with an abundance of holiday leftovers. In my family, this period is marked by the comforting aroma of a special dish—Crimbo Limbo Baked Rice with Turkey. This recipe, lovingly passed down from my grandmother, exemplifies the resourcefulness and warmth of home cooking.

A Family Tradition

My grandmother had a remarkable talent for turning leftover meats into delightful meals, ensuring nothing went to waste. Her baked rice dish was a versatile creation, adapting to whatever meats were on hand—be it turkey, chicken, or beef. The essence of the dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability, making it a timeless favorite in our household.

Ingredients

• 50g unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cups baldo rice, soaked in hot water for 30 minutes and drained

• 2 cups turkey cooking juices or chicken stock

• 2 cups cooked turkey meat (or any leftover meat), shredded

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or coriander, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your fan oven to 200°C (392°F).

2. Prepare the Pan: In a lidded ovenproof pan, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.

3. Sauté the Rice: Add the drained rice to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice becomes slightly translucent.

4. Add Liquid: Pour in the turkey cooking juices or chicken stock. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Add Meat: Once boiling, evenly distribute the shredded leftover meat over the rice mixture.

6. Bake: Cover the pan with its lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes.

7. Rest: After baking, remove the pan from the oven and let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes to allow the rice to finish cooking and absorb the flavors.

8. Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or coriander if desired, and serve hot.

Versatility at Its Best

One of the beauties of this dish is its adaptability. While turkey is a common choice during the festive season, this recipe welcomes any leftover meats you have on hand. Whether it’s chicken, beef, or even sausage, the method remains the same, allowing you to create a new and satisfying meal from previous dinners.

A Culinary Heritage

Dishes like this baked rice are not just meals; they are a testament to the ingenuity and love inherent in family cooking traditions. By repurposing leftovers into something delicious and comforting, we honor the resourcefulness of past generations and continue to share the warmth of home-cooked meals with our loved ones.

Conclusion

Crimbo Limbo Baked Rice with Turkey is more than a recipe; it’s a cherished family tradition that brings together the past and present. Its versatility ensures that no food goes to waste, and its comforting flavors make it a perfect dish for the festive season. As you gather with family and friends during this special time, consider sharing this nostalgic meal and creating new memories around the dinner table.