Dominica Rice and Peas with Coconut
A flavorful and comforting side dish, this Dominica-style rice and peas incorporates creamy coconut milk and aromatic herbs for a taste of the Caribbean.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Long-grain white rice
- 1 cup Dried pigeon peas(soaked overnight or quick-soaked)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) Coconut milk
- 1.5 cups Water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 medium Onion(chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 sprig Thyme(fresh)
- 1/4 piece Scotch bonnet pepper(whole, or to taste, optional)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the soaked pigeon peas thoroughly and drain.
- 2
In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the rinsed pigeon peas, coconut milk, water or broth, thyme sprig, and the whole scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Bring to a boil.
- 5
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
- 6
Stir in the rinsed rice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Ensure there is enough liquid to cook the rice; add a little more water or broth if needed.
- 7
Cover the pot tightly and cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid stirring too much.
- 8
Once cooked, remove the thyme sprig and scotch bonnet pepper. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking pigeon peas overnight is recommended for faster cooking.
- ✓For a spicier kick, you can prick the scotch bonnet pepper a few times before adding it.
- ✓Ensure the scotch bonnet pepper is removed before serving if you don't want excessive heat.
- ✓Don't over-stir the rice once it's added, as this can make it mushy.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced salted pigtail or ham hock for extra flavor.
- Incorporate a can of kidney beans along with the pigeon peas for a mixed bean version.
- A pinch of allspice can add another layer of Caribbean flavor.