Description of this recipe
Jamaican Rice and Peas, despite its name, is not actually made with peas, but with kidney beans! This iconic Caribbean dish is a staple at family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and celebrations throughout Jamaica and its diaspora. It’s a comforting, flavorful side dish (or even a light meal on its own) that perfectly complements jerk chicken, curry goat, fried fish, or any number of other Caribbean delicacies. The richness of the coconut milk, the subtle heat of the Scotch bonnet pepper, and the aromatic spices all come together to create a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the islands.
Why you will love this recipe
You will fall in love with this Jamaican Rice and Peas recipe because it is:
- Authentic and Flavorful: This recipe captures the true essence of Jamaican Rice and Peas, delivering an authentic taste that mirrors what you’d find in a Jamaican home or restaurant. The use of traditional ingredients like coconut milk, Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, and allspice ensures a genuine and unforgettable flavor profile.
- Surprisingly Easy to Make: Don’t be intimidated by the complex flavors. This recipe is actually quite simple to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time. With just a few basic steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delicious Rice and Peas in under an hour.
- Versatile and Adaptable: While this recipe follows the classic Jamaican approach, it’s also highly adaptable to your personal preferences. You can adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper to control the level of heat, experiment with different types of beans, or even add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- A Crowd-Pleaser: Rice and Peas is a dish that everyone loves. Its comforting texture, rich flavor, and aromatic spices make it a guaranteed hit at potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. You can enjoy this delicious dish without any worries.
- A Taste of the Caribbean: Whether you’ve visited Jamaica before or are simply looking to explore new flavors, this recipe offers a delightful taste of the Caribbean. It’s a perfect way to bring a bit of sunshine and island vibes to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 cup canned red kidney beans, drained and rinsed (or use dried soaked beans)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 spring onions, chopped (including green part)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole, do not cut)
- 1/2 tsp allspice (pimento berries)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: If using dried kidney beans, soak them overnight. The next day, drain and rinse the beans, then boil them in fresh water until they are tender, about 45 minutes to an hour. If using canned kidney beans (which is much faster!), simply drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch and sodium. This step is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your Rice and Peas.
Step 2: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is essential for removing excess starch from the rice, which will prevent it from becoming sticky and gummy during cooking. Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear, usually for about 2-3 minutes. Use your hands to gently agitate the rice while rinsing.
Step 3: In a medium-sized pot, combine the coconut milk, water, crushed garlic, finely chopped onion, chopped spring onions (both white and green parts), thyme (fresh or dried), allspice (pimento berries), salt, and black pepper. Stir the ingredients together to ensure they are well combined. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Once the mixture is gently boiling, add the drained and rinsed kidney beans and the whole Scotch bonnet pepper (remember, do not cut or break the pepper, as this will release too much heat). Carefully stir in the rinsed rice, ensuring that it is evenly distributed throughout the liquid.
Step 5: Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. This is crucial for trapping the steam and ensuring that the rice cooks evenly. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting possible and simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and all the liquid has been absorbed. It’s important to avoid stirring the rice during cooking, as this can disrupt the cooking process and result in mushy rice. Trust the process and let the steam do its magic!
Step 6: After 18-20 minutes, check the rice to ensure that it is cooked and that all the liquid has been absorbed. If there is still liquid remaining, continue to simmer for a few more minutes, checking periodically until the liquid is gone. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the rice to steam and fully absorb any remaining moisture. This will result in perfectly fluffy and tender Rice and Peas.
Step 7: Before serving, carefully remove the whole Scotch bonnet pepper from the pot (remember not to eat it!). Use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains and preventing them from clumping together. This will create a light and airy texture.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
Jamaican Rice and Peas is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or a light meal on its own. Here are some popular serving suggestions:
- With Jerk Chicken or Pork: This is a classic pairing. The spicy, smoky flavors of jerk chicken or pork complement the creamy, coconutty flavor of the Rice and Peas perfectly.
- With Curry Goat or Chicken: Another popular choice. The rich, aromatic flavors of the curry pair beautifully with the Rice and Peas.
- With Fried Fish: A simple yet satisfying combination. The crispy, flaky fish is a delicious contrast to the soft, flavorful Rice and Peas.
- As a Side Dish to Grilled Meats or Vegetables: Rice and Peas can also be served as a side dish to grilled meats or vegetables, adding a Caribbean twist to your meal.
- As a Vegetarian or Vegan Main Course: For a light and healthy meal, serve Rice and Peas with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
- With Ackee and Saltfish: For a truly authentic Jamaican experience, serve Rice and Peas with ackee and saltfish, Jamaica’s national dish.
Tips:
- Use Good Quality Coconut Milk: The quality of your coconut milk will significantly impact the flavor of your Rice and Peas. Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest and most authentic flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Scotch Bonnet Pepper: The Scotch bonnet pepper adds a unique flavor and aroma to the dish. However, be careful not to break or cut the pepper, as this will release too much heat.
- Don’t Overcook the Rice: Overcooking the rice will result in a mushy texture. Be sure to simmer the rice gently and avoid stirring it during cooking.
- Let the Rice Rest: Allowing the rice to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking allows it to steam and fully absorb any remaining moisture, resulting in a perfectly fluffy texture.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the Rice and Peas before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, black pepper, or even a touch of sugar to balance the flavors.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, garnish the Rice and Peas with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus soaking time for dried beans, if using)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
Protein: 8-10 grams per serving
Sodium: 300-400mg per serving
Conclusion
Jamaican Rice and Peas is more than just a side dish; it’s a cultural icon, a taste of home, and a celebration of flavor. This simple yet incredibly delicious recipe captures the essence of Jamaican cuisine and is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it alongside jerk chicken, curry goat, or simply enjoying it on its own, Rice and Peas is a dish that will always bring a smile to your face. So, gather your ingredients, put on some reggae music, and get ready to experience the taste of Jamaica!
5 Questions and Answers about this recipe
Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: While traditionally made with white rice, you can substitute brown rice for a healthier option. However, keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time. You may need to add more water and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. The texture will also be slightly different, with brown rice being chewier than white rice.
Q2: I don’t have Scotch bonnet peppers. What can I use instead?
A: Scotch bonnet peppers are essential for the authentic flavor of Jamaican Rice and Peas, but if you can’t find them, you can substitute habanero peppers. Habaneros have a similar heat level and flavor profile. However, use them sparingly, as they can be quite spicy. If you prefer a milder dish, you can use a milder chili pepper like a jalapeño, but keep in mind that the flavor will be different.
Q3: Can I make this recipe in a rice cooker?
A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe in a rice cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the rice cooker, following the manufacturer’s instructions for rice to liquid ratio. Cook until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Let the rice rest for a few minutes before fluffing and serving.
Q4: Can I freeze leftover Rice and Peas?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Rice and Peas for up to 2-3 months. Allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw the rice in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a little water or coconut milk to prevent the rice from drying out.
Q5: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables to your Rice and Peas to boost the nutritional value and flavor. Some popular additions include diced carrots, bell peppers, peas, or corn. Add the vegetables along with the kidney beans and rice, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
