Bring a taste of Jamaica to your dinner table with this classic and hearty dish: Jamaican Rice and Peas. Despite its name, this beloved recipe actually features rice and beans, typically red kidney beans or sometimes pigeon peas. It’s a staple in Jamaican cuisine, known for its aromatic spices and flavorful coconut milk. Here’s how you can recreate this delicious dish at home, perfect for a family dinner or a comforting meal any day of the week.

Ingredients:

1 can of red kidney beans, drained and rinsed (you can also use pigeon peas)

1 can of coconut milk

2 cups of water

2 cups of long-grain rice, rinsed and drained

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon of dried thyme or a few sprigs of fresh thyme

1 whole scotch bonnet pepper (leave whole to avoid too much heat)

1 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

1 scallion (green onion), chopped

1 small piece of ginger, peeled and sliced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans: If using dried beans, soak them overnight, then cook them until tender. For canned beans, simply drain and rinse them well.

2. Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic in a bit of oil until they are soft and translucent. This creates a flavorful base for the rice and peas.

3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: To the sautéed onions and garlic, add the coconut milk, water, thyme, whole scotch bonnet pepper, salt, black pepper, and sliced ginger if using. Bring the mixture to a boil. The whole pepper will infuse the dish with flavor without making it too spicy, but be sure not to burst the pepper.

4. Add the Rice and Beans: Stir in the rinsed rice and the prepared beans. Bring back to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and all the liquid is absorbed.

5. Finish and Serve: Once the rice is tender and fluffy, remove the scotch bonnet pepper and ginger slices. Stir in the chopped scallion for a fresh burst of flavor. Give the rice and peas a gentle fluff with a fork to mix everything nicely.

6. Enjoy: Serve your Jamaican Rice and Peas hot. It pairs wonderfully with jerk chicken or any grilled meats for a truly authentic Jamaican meal.

This Jamaican Rice and Peas recipe is not just filling; it’s packed with flavors that comfort and satisfy. It’s a simple way to bring a piece of the Caribbean to your kitchen and an excellent dish to share with family and friends. Enjoy cooking and even more, enjoy your meal