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Peas and Rice

Years ago, I used to travel to Jamaica, the Bahamas, and many other islands in the West Indies and Caribbean every month.  Being business travel related to heavy industry, all of my travels were in the more “authentic” parts of the islands.

I probably spent more time in Kingston than anywhere else (without going into details, it’s nothing like the tourist spots on the north shore). Being the type that seeks out the local food and people with a proclivity for exploring, my good friend Don and I ate street food throughout the city and drove all over the island in search of a new meal.

Stereotypical dishes such as jerk chicken certainly figured into the equation and so did a myriad of other meals I’ll post later.  At the end of the day though, peas and rice were ubiquitous, served with nearly every meal.  Typically similar to red beans and rice, but much more rich.

I’ve run across many recipes but this one I received from the wife of friend on the island suits me best.  Healthy and done in 30 minutes, you really should give it a try.

Why peas and rice instead of beans and rice?  No one ever seemed to know.

Enjoy.

Ingredients:

·         2 cups vegetable broth

·         1 can (15-ounce) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

·         1 cup canned unsweetened coconut milk

·         1 jalapeno, deseeded and minced

·         1 teaspoon dried thyme

·         ½ teaspoon ground allspice

·         ¾ cup medium-grain white rice

·         1 cup thinly sliced green onions

Procedure:

1.    In a large saucepan, combine everything but the rice and green onion and raise the heat to a boil.

 

2.    Add the rice and mix, then reduce the reduce heat to a simmer.

 

3.    Cook until the rice is almost tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes.

 

4.    Stir in most of the green onions, reserving some for garnish.

 

5.    Continue cooking until the rice is completely tender, about four minutes.

 

6.    Plate the peas and rice and garnish with green onions.

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May 14th, 2009 | Tags: , , , | Category: Jamaica, Vegetarian |

16 comments to Peas and Rice

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