How to Cook Rice and Peas in Instant Pot: Effortless and Delicious Recipes
Rice and peas is a classic dish that is loved by many around the world. From the Caribbean islands to Asia, this simple yet flavorful combination is a staple in various cuisines. If you’re a fan of this delightful duo and own an Instant Pot, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll explore effortless and delicious recipes on how to cook rice and peas in an Instant Pot.
Why Use an Instant Pot?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s discuss why an Instant Pot is the perfect tool for cooking rice and peas. The Instant Pot is a versatile electric pressure cooker that not only saves time but also preserves the flavor and nutrients of the ingredients. It allows for efficient cooking and tenderization, making it an excellent choice for this dish.
Recipe 1: Classic Rice and Peas
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of long-grain rice
– 1 cup of coconut milk
– 1 cup of water
– 1 can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional for heat)
– Salt to taste
– Black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes any excess starch and ensures fluffy rice.
2. In the Instant Pot, select the sauté function and heat some oil. Sauté the onions and garlic until they become translucent, giving a fragrant aroma.
3. Add the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, kidney beans, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper (if desired) into the Instant Pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
5. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
6. Carefully remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Remove the thyme sprigs and whole scotch bonnet pepper before serving.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Your delicious and authentic rice and peas is ready to be enjoyed!
Recipe 2: One-Pot Chicken Rice and Peas
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of white rice
– 1 cup of coconut milk
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 sprig of fresh thyme
– 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional for heat)
– 1 cup of frozen peas
– Salt to taste
– Black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the Instant Pot, select the sauté function and heat some oil. Sauté the onions, garlic, and chicken pieces until the chicken is lightly browned.
2. Add the rice, coconut milk, chicken broth, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper (if desired) into the Instant Pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
5. Carefully remove the lid and stir in the frozen peas. The residual heat will thaw them perfectly.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Your flavorful one-pot chicken rice and peas are now ready to be savored!
Recipe 3: Vegan Rice and Peas
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of basmati rice
– 1 cup of coconut milk
– 1 cup of vegetable broth
– 1 can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional for heat)
– Salt to taste
– Black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In the Instant Pot, select the sauté function and heat some oil. Sauté the onions and garlic until they become translucent and aromatic.
3. Add the rice, coconut milk, vegetable broth, kidney beans, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper (if desired) into the Instant Pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
5. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
6. Remove the lid and carefully fluff the rice with a fork. Remove the thyme sprigs and whole scotch bonnet pepper before serving.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Your vegan rice and peas dish is now ready to be enjoyed, packed with wonderful flavors!
Conclusion
Cooking rice and peas in an Instant Pot is truly an effortless way to enjoy this classic dish. Whether you prefer the traditional recipe with coconut milk or prefer variations with meat or vegetables, the Instant Pot guarantees perfectly cooked rice and flavorful peas with each batch. Get creative with seasonings and additional ingredients, and don’t be afraid to experiment! These recipes are just the beginning, so fire up your Instant Pot and start creating delicious rice and peas dishes right in the comfort of your own kitchen. Enjoy!