Excellent accompaniment with all things Jamaican, Caribbean and tropical.
Or eat it straight out of the pot!
Welcome back to Jamaican week!
A plate of Jamaican deliciousness! Big, bold flavouredJerk Fish, this coconut rice and peas, plusJamaican Slaw, a tangy vibrant side that completes this plate.
Its Jamaican week here on RecipeTin Eats!
Jamaican coconut rice and peas (beans!)
Rice and peas is a staple side dish in Jamaica and much of the Caribbean.
Though called rice andpeas, its actually made with beans!
So theres no peas in sight!!!
Rice types Long grain works best as the grains will separate best.
A plate of Jamaican deliciousness! Big, bold flavouredJerk Fish, this coconut rice and peas, plusJamaican Slaw, a tangy vibrant side that completes this plate.
But you’re able to also use basmati, jasmine and medium grain rice.
Red kidney beans Traditionally, dried beans are used which require overnight soaking.
Ive opted for canned for convenience.
This rice dish starts off with onion and garlic sautéed in butter with spices, fresh chilli and a bay leaf before coconut milk is added. You know it’s going to be good!
Other beans Black beans also works and will look similar.
But you might skip it, if you prefer not spicy.
Coconut milk Not all coconut milk is created equal!
Long grain rice is best though you can also use basmati, medium grain, short grain or jasmine rice.
Cheaper = less coconut %, more water = less coconut flavour.
Aim for > 70% (I use Ayam which is 89%).
Check the ingredients label.
Low fat doesnt have as good a coconut flavour.
But it will work.
Dried thyme A commonly used dried herb in Caribbean cooking.
All spice For beautiful warmth, another ingredient that makes a regular appearance in Caribbean food!
Also used in Jerk seasoning (seeJerk Fish).
Substitute with mixed spice.
Bay leaf Earthy aromatic.
Fresh is best if you might, else dried.
Garlic and onion Essential aromatics that we saute with butter and the spices.
Butter you’re able to use oil if you prefer, but butter is better flavour!
Traditionally, rice and peas is prepared on the stove using dried beans which are soaked overnight.
The oven is much easier for home cooks!
Trust me on this.
My team and I testedcoconut riceover 30 times to perfect it for mycookbook.
Its taken almost 8 months before we could face a coconut rice recipe again!!
Prevent screen from sleeping
No more mushy coconut rice, ever again!
Liquids Add coconut, water, kidney beans and salt.
Rice Once it comes to a simmer, add rice then give it a quick stir.
Once you see bubbles breaking the surface, immediately cover then transfer to oven.
This self corrects in the next step when we rest!
Rest 15 minutes Leave the pot on the counter with the lid on for 15 minutes.
Usually plain rice is rested for only 10 minutes.
Fluff and serve!Pick out the chilli and bay leave, if you want.
Fluff with a rice paddle or rubber spatula, then tumble the rice into a bowl and serve!
What to serve with Jamaican rice and peas (beans!)
But I wouldnt stop there!
Anything tropical or with tropical(ish!)
vibes, seafood and citrus flavours would be a fitting match.
)garlic prawnsor a beautiful piece of freshfish with crispy skinfinished with a simple squeeze of lemon.
Share your suggestions for what youd pair this Jamaican rice with!
You know this had to happen…. Im so predictable!
