Discover the flavors of the Caribbean with our Classic Rice and Peas recipe. This traditional side dish combines tender rice with hearty pigeon peas and creamy coconut milk for a rich, satisfying taste. Perfect for adding a touch of island flair to your meals, this easy-to-follow recipe brings together essential spices and ingredients for an authentic Caribbean experience. Ideal for any occasion, from family dinners to festive gatherings.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup dried pigeon peas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)

- 1 cup long-grain white rice

- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk

- 2 cups water

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1-2 sprigs of fresh thyme

- 1-2 scallions, chopped

- 1-2 hot peppers (such as Scotch bonnet or habanero), whole

- 1 teaspoon allspice

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

Prepare Pigeon Peas:

  - If using dried pigeon peas, soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse before cooking. Cook them in a pot of fresh water until tender, about 45 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Cook Aromatics:

  - Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until soft and translucent.

Combine Ingredients:

  - Add the cooked pigeon peas (or canned peas) to the pan with the onion and garlic. Stir in the coconut milk, water, thyme, scallions, and hot pepper. Season with allspice, salt, and black pepper.

Cook Rice:

  - Bring the mixture to a boil. Stir in the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Finish and Serve:

  - Remove the hot pepper and thyme sprigs before serving. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot as a side dish to your favorite Caribbean meals.

Enjoy this delightful Rice and Peas as a staple side that brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to your table!

Nutritional values

Here’s the nutritional information and benefits for the ingredients used in your recipe:

1 cup dried pigeon peas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)

  - Calories: Approximately 300 kcal

  - Protein: 20g

  - Carbohydrates: 55g

  - Fat: 1g

Benefits:

  - High in protein, beneficial for muscle repair and growth.

  - Rich in fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting heart health.

1 cup long-grain white rice

  - Calories: Approximately 205 kcal

  - Protein: 4g

  - Carbohydrates: 45g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Provides a primary source of carbohydrates for energy.

  - Versatile and easy to cook.

1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk

  - Calories: Approximately 445 kcal

  - Fat: 48g (mostly saturated fat)

  - Carbohydrates: 6g

  - Protein: 5g

Benefits:

  - Adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor.

  - Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which may support metabolism.

2 cups water

  - Calories: 0 kcal

Benefits:

  - Essential for cooking and mixing ingredients.

  - Adds moisture without adding calories.

1 small onion, finely chopped

  - Calories: 45 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 11g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Adds flavor and aroma to the dish.

  - Contains antioxidants and may support heart health.

2 cloves garlic, minced

  - Calories: 8 kcal per clove

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Protein: 0.4g

Benefits:

  - Boosts the immune system and has anti-inflammatory properties.

  - Adds a robust flavor to the dish.

1-2 sprigs of fresh thyme

  - Calories: 6 kcal per tablespoon

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

  - Contains compounds that may have antimicrobial benefits.

  - Adds a subtle, earthy flavor.

1-2 scallions, chopped

  - Calories: 10 kcal per scallion

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Protein: 1g

Benefits:

  - Adds a mild onion flavor and crunch.

  - Contains vitamins A and C.

1-2 hot peppers (such as Scotch bonnet or habanero), whole

  - Calories: 10 kcal per pepper

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Capsaicin: Provides heat and has potential health benefits.

Benefits:

  - Adds a spicy kick to the dish.

  - Capsaicin may boost metabolism and have pain-relief properties.

1 teaspoon allspice

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

  - Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.

  - Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion.

Salt and black pepper to taste

  - Salt: 0 kcal, but high sodium content

  - Black pepper: 6 kcal per teaspoon

Benefits:

  - Salt enhances overall flavor but should be used in moderation.

  - Black pepper adds a spicy kick and may aid digestion.

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  - Calories: 120 kcal

  - Fat: 14g

Benefits:

  - Adds flavor and helps with cooking.

  - Provides essential fatty acids that can be part of a balanced diet.