Rice and peas

rice_and_peas

Jamaican rice and peas is one of the most popular dishes in Jamaican cuisine. It is a dish that is widely enjoyed throughout the Caribbean and other parts of the world. This dish is a perfect comfort food, and you can find it on the menu of many Jamaican restaurants.

The dish is made using rice and peas as the main ingredients, seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices. Rice and peas dish is known for its unique flavor and aroma, which is a combination of spices, coconut milk, and scallions. The dish is typically served with a side offried plantainsor a salad.

The history of Jamaican rice and peas dates back to the time of slavery. African slaves were brought to Jamaica to work on sugar plantations. These slaves brought with them their own culinary traditions, which contributed to the development of Jamaican cuisine.

One of the most important ingredients in Jamaican rice and peas is the type of peas used in the recipe. Traditionally, red kidney beans are used, but you can also use black-eyed peas or gungo peas. The type of peas used changes the flavor of the dish slightly.

Another important ingredient is coconut milk. The use of coconut milk in Jamaican rice and peas gives the dish its unique flavor and richness.

The dish is typically made by cooking the rice and peas together in a pot with coconut milk, scallions, and seasonings. The dish is then served hot with a side of plantains or salad.

There are several variations to the Jamaican rice and peas recipe. Some variations include the addition of meats like chicken, pork, or beef. Other variations include the use of different types of beans or peas.

One of the best things about Jamaican rice and peas is that it is a one-pot dish. This means that the dish is easy to make and requires minimal cleanup. The simplicity of the dish makes it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or for when you are entertaining guests.

Overall, Jamaican rice and peas is a dish that is packed with flavor and is sure to please any palate. Whether you are a fan of spicy foods or not, this dish is sure to hit all the right notes. So why not try making this classic Jamaican dish today?

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of long grain white rice
  • 1 can of red kidney beans
  • 1 can of coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp of dried thyme
  • 2 scallions, chopped
  • 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
  • 2 cups of water
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in vegetable oil until translucent.

  2. Add thyme, scallions and cook for another minute.

  3. Add water and bring to a boil.

  4. Add the rice and stir.

  5. Drain the can of red kidney beans and add it to the pot.

  6. Pour in the coconut milk and stir.

  7. Add salt and black pepper to taste.

  8. Bring everything to a boil and then reduce the heat to low

  9. Allow to cook for 20-25 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the water has been absorbed.

  10. Once the rice is done, remove from heat and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Serve hot as a side dish to your favorite Jamaican main dish. Enjoy your Jamaican rice and peas!