jannababe
Culinary Explorer
I recently made Jamaican Rice and Peas, and it was an absolute delight! This classic Caribbean dish features fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk with red kidney beans (peas), infused with aromatic herbs and spices. It’s a perfect side dish that pairs beautifully with jerk chicken, curry goat, or any of your favorite meats. Here’s how you can make it at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried red kidney beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 2 cups water (if using dried beans)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4-5 sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole, do not chop)
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Beans (If Using Dried):
- Rinse the dried kidney beans and soak them in water overnight.
- Drain the soaked beans, place them in a large pot, and cover with 2 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the beans are tender but not mushy (about 1-1.5 hours). Drain and set aside. If using canned beans, skip this step.
2. Prepare the Rice and Peas:
- In a large pot, combine the cooked beans (or canned beans), coconut milk, minced garlic, thyme, green onions, Scotch bonnet pepper, and ground allspice. Add 2 cups of water and stir to combine.
3. Cook the Rice:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rinsed rice to the pot with the beans and coconut milk mixture. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Do not lift the lid or stir the rice during cooking.
5. Rest and Serve:
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to finish steaming.
- Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper before serving.
Conclusion
Jamaican Rice and Peas is a fragrant and flavorful dish that brings a taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen. The combination of creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices, and tender beans makes it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite Jamaican main courses and savor the rich, tropical flavors!
