There’s something magical about the combination of rice and peas that wraps you in a warm, cozy hug. Imagine the fluffy rice, perfectly cooked, mingling with tender peas that pop with every bite. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like an invisible cheerleader, beckoning everyone to gather around for a delicious meal.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make rice and peas</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of rice is best for rice and peas?
- Can I make rice and peas vegan?
- How long does it take to cook rice and peas?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish is not just food; it’s a memory-maker. Picture family gatherings or casual dinners when laughter fills the air, and this delightful recipe takes center stage. Whether it’s a Sunday feast or a quick weeknight dinner, rice and peas never fail to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This rice and peas recipe offers simplicity while delivering mouth-watering flavors
- It’s visually appealing with its vibrant colors that brighten any plate
- You can easily adjust the ingredients to match your pantry staples or dietary needs
- It pairs beautifully with various proteins or can stand alone as a hearty vegetarian option
I still remember the time my cousin made this dish for our family reunion, and it vanished faster than you can say “rice and peas.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Long-grain Rice: Choose high-quality long-grain rice for fluffy texture; basmati works wonders too.
Canned Red Kidney Beans: Opt for low-sodium varieties; they add protein and flavor without overpowering.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk delivers creaminess; it’s the secret to luscious flavor.
Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme elevates the dish’s aroma; substitute with dried if fresh isn’t available.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile; don’t skimp on its pungency!
Salt & Pepper: Essential for bringing all flavors together; adjust according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make rice and peas
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing one cup of long-grain rice under cold water until it runs clear—this removes excess starch for fluffier results. Gather your canned kidney beans, coconut milk, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Sauté Aromatics: In a medium pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about 1 minute. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like heaven.
Add Rice & Liquid: Stir in the rinsed rice along with one cup of coconut milk and one cup of water into the pot. This creamy mix is where magic happens!
Incorporate Beans & Seasonings: Gently fold in drained kidney beans and fresh thyme leaves. Sprinkle salt and pepper according to your taste—this is your moment to shine!
Cook It Up!: Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly and let simmer for 20 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Fluff & Serve!: Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with extra thyme if feeling fancy—because why not?
Enjoy this delightful dish that makes you feel like a culinary genius while being oh-so-easy!
You Must Know
- Rice and peas is a classic dish with rich flavors; using fresh ingredients enhances its taste
- Ensure to choose high-quality rice for the perfect texture
- The delightful aroma of coconut milk and spices will fill your kitchen, making it irresistible to everyone
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by rinsing the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Sauté onions and garlic first, then add coconut milk and seasonings before incorporating the rice. This order ensures maximum flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize by adding bell peppers or thyme for a unique twist. Consider replacing conventional rice with brown rice for added nutrition or even quinoa if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover rice and peas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use Basmati or Jasmine rice for a fragrant touch that complements the dish perfectly
- Soaking your rice beforehand can improve texture, making it fluffier
- Don’t skip seasoning; it’s what transforms plain ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece
Sharing my first experience making rice and peas reminds me of a family gathering where everyone went back for seconds, asking for my secret recipe!
FAQ
What type of rice is best for rice and peas?
Basmati or jasmine rice works beautifully due to their aromatic qualities.
Can I make rice and peas vegan?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for cooking.
How long does it take to cook rice and peas?
Cooking usually takes about 20-25 minutes once everything is combined.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Rice and Peas
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Rice and peas is a comforting dish that combines fluffy long-grain rice with tender kidney beans in a creamy coconut milk base, elevated by aromatic garlic and fresh thyme. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile, making it perfect for family gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. With its vibrant colors and mouth-watering flavors, rice and peas is sure to impress everyone around the table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati preferred)
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans (low-sodium)
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the rinsed rice, coconut milk, and water; bring to a boil.
- Gently fold in drained kidney beans and thyme, then season with salt and pepper.
- Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
