Chamorro Red Rice

 Last summer we were invited to a Guam Liberation Festival and I was super excited to try the food. One of the dishes we tried was simply called red rice, and it was fantastic. It tasted like bacon and other savory things and I couldn't wait to make it at home. It seems that bacon is accepted but not the most traditional way to make it so if you like replace the drippings with vegetable oil and start the recipe with sauteing an onion.

5 strips bacon (optional, or use oil)
1 red onion, chopped fine
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 c. rice
3 c. water
1 tsp. achiote powder
black pepper
1 1/2 tsp. salt

Cook the bacon in an instant pot on saute. Once the bacon is caramelized on both sides remove from the pan and add the onion. Saute until the onion in the bacon drippings just until the onion is starting to look tender. 

Add the garlic and rice to the pan and saute for 2-3 minutes, just enough to soften the garlic and coat the rice. 

Add the water, achiote, pepper, and salt. Place the lid on the pot and set to pressure. Cook for 6 minutes. Allow to cool for an additional 5 minutes and then release the pressure. When the pressure has gone down remove the lid and serve.