Rikkita Beef with Peas and Rice
Rikkita Beef is a unique dish from Saint Kitts and Nevis where tender beefsteak is marinated in a flavorful blend of champagne, garlic, and chili peppers, then pan-fried to perfection. It's traditionally served with a side of savory peas and rice, a staple in Caribbean cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Beef sirloin steak(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 cup Champagne
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 small Hot chili peppers(finely chopped (e.g., scotch bonnet or serrano))
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp Curry powder
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 cups Rice(long-grain)
- 1 cup Pigeon peas(cooked or canned, drained)
- 3 cups Chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Thyme(fresh, chopped)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(chopped)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 1 stalk Celery(chopped)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Punch holes all over the beef cubes with a sharp fork to help them absorb the marinade.
💡 Tip: This tenderizes the meat and allows flavors to penetrate. - 2
In a bowl, combine the beef cubes, champagne, minced garlic, chopped chili peppers, salt, cayenne pepper, and curry powder. Marinate for at least 1 hour, turning the beef every 15 minutes.
- 3
While the beef marinates, prepare the peas and rice. In a pot, heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bell pepper, onion, and celery. Sauté until softened and lightly browned.
- 4
Add the rice, pigeon peas, chicken broth, and chopped thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- 5
Heat the remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil and 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef cubes (reserving the marinade) and sear until browned on all sides.
- 6
Add the reserved marinade to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened slightly and the beef is cooked to your desired doneness.
- 7
Fluff the peas and rice with a fork. Serve the Rikkita Beef alongside the peas and rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier kick, leave some seeds in the chili peppers.
- ✓Ensure the champagne marinade is well-infused into the beef for optimal flavor.
- ✓Don't overcook the beef; it should remain tender.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a splash of lime juice to the marinade for extra zest.
- Substitute beef sirloin with tenderloin for an even more luxurious dish.
- For a richer peas and rice, use coconut milk instead of some of the chicken broth.