Okra Pilau

Pilaus are a staple of the low country SC kitchen. The only problem with preparing them is that is essential that you have a rice steamer. A rice steamer works like a double boiler except that it allows steam to enter the top part of the device. If you Google "Charleston Rice Steamer" several sites will appear where you can purchase one of these. Target has one for $29.95 by mail order. This recipe is from St. Michael's Church in Charleston, SC.

• Ready In: 2 hrs
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 6  slices bacon, chopped
• 1  lb okra, sliced
• 1 1⁄2 cups  dry long grain rice
• 1 1⁄4 cups water
•  salt & pepper

Directions

1. Fry the bacon until it is half cooked. Add the okra and cook for a further 5 minutes. Stir in the rice, water, salt, and pepper. Pour mixture into the top part of a rice steamer. In the bottom part of the rice steamer place several cups of hot water. Insert the top part and cook, covered, for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until the rice just starts to dry.