Jamaican Sunday Rice
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish often prepared for Sunday dinners, featuring a blend of spices, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood, offering a comforting and hearty meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Long-grain white rice(rinsed)
- 3.5 cups Chicken broth
- 0.5 cup Coconut milk(full fat)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 0.5 medium Bell pepper(chopped (any color))
- 2 stalks Scallions(chopped)
- 1 tsp Thyme(fresh leaves or 0.5 tsp dried)
- 4-6 whole Allspice berries
- 1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper(pierced, optional for heat)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 cup Cooked chicken or shrimp(optional, diced)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and scallions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the thyme, allspice berries, and the pierced Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). If adding cooked chicken or shrimp, add it now and sauté for a minute.
- 5
Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir to coat with the aromatics. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- 6
Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk. Add salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- 7
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- 8
Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the rice is well-rinsed to remove excess starch, which helps prevent stickiness.
- ✓Adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper to your spice preference, or omit it entirely.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken stock.
- ✓Do not lift the lid while the rice is simmering to ensure even cooking.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced carrots or peas for extra color and nutrients.
- Incorporate smoked turkey or pigtail for a more traditional Sunday flavor.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.