Welcome to a taste of the tropics with this delicious Caribbean inspired recipe for Rice and Peas with Pigeon Peas. A staple dish in many Caribbean households, this flavorful and nutritious meal is sure to transport your taste buds to the sunny islands with every bite. The combination of fluffy rice, creamy coconut milk, and aromatic seasonings makes this dish a perfect side or main course for any occasion. Let’s get started on creating this vibrant and satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of long-grain white rice
– 1 can (15 oz) of pigeon peas, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (13.5 oz) of full-fat coconut milk
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of allspice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups of water
– Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This will help ensure your rice cooks up light and fluffy.
2. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the dried thyme and allspice, and cook for another minute to toast the spices and release their flavors.
4. Add the drained pigeon peas to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and spice mixture.
5. Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and water, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to ensure the flavors are well distributed.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
7. Once the rice is ready, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains and mix in the pigeon peas evenly.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper according to your preference.
9. Serve your Caribbean Style Rice and Peas with Pigeon Peas hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish as a side to your favorite Caribbean mains, or as a satisfying vegetarian meal on its own. The creamy coconut milk pairs perfectly with the tender rice and hearty pigeon peas, creating a dish that is a true celebration of Caribbean flavors. Delight your senses and transport yourself to the sunny shores with every delicious mouthful of this delightful Rice and Peas recipe.
