Rice and peas is a popular dish that is enjoyed in many Caribbean countries, especially on Sundays. Traditionally, this dish is made with coconut milk, giving it a creamy texture and a rich flavor. However, if you don’t have coconut milk on hand or prefer not to use it, you can still make a delicious pot of rice and peas. In this article, we will explore a quick and easy way to cook rice and peas without coconut milk.
Gathering the Ingredients
Choosing the Right Rice
The first step in making rice and peas without coconut milk is to choose the right type of rice. In Caribbean cuisine, long-grain rice is typically used for this dish. Basmati or jasmine rice are great options as well, as they have a fragrant aroma and absorb flavors beautifully. You will need around two cups of rice for this recipe.
Peas and Seasonings
Next, gather your peas and seasonings. Traditionally, kidney beans or pigeon peas are used in rice and peas. However, you can also use black-eyed peas or any other variety of beans that you like. Make sure to soak your peas overnight or for at least six hours before cooking to ensure they become tender.
For seasoning, you will need garlic, onion, thyme, scallions, and a Scotch bonnet pepper. These ingredients will add depth and flavor to your rice and peas. If you don’t have a Scotch bonnet pepper on hand, you can substitute it with jalapeño or habanero pepper for a milder spice.
Preparation and Cooking
Sautéing the Aromatics
To start cooking your rice and peas without coconut milk, sauté the minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and chopped scallions in a large pot with some vegetable oil. Sauté them until they become fragrant and the onions begin to soften. This step will help to release the flavors of the aromatics and enhance the taste of your dish.
Adding the Seasonings
Once the aromatics are sautéed, you can add the thyme and Scotch bonnet pepper to the pot. Remember to handle the Scotch bonnet pepper with caution as it can be very spicy. It’s recommended to remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat if you prefer a milder flavor. However, if you like a spicier dish, you can keep them in.
Stir the seasonings into the pot and let them cook for a minute or two. This will allow the flavors to infuse into the oil and aromatics, creating a delicious base for your rice and peas.
Adding the Rice and Peas
After the seasonings have cooked, it’s time to add the soaked peas and rice to the pot. Make sure to drain the peas before adding them. Stir everything together to coat the rice and peas with the aromatic mixture.
Adding Liquid and Cooking
In traditional rice and peas recipes without coconut milk, water or chicken stock is used as a liquid. Add enough liquid to the pot to cover the rice and peas. For every cup of rice, use around 1.5 cups of liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cover the pot and let the rice and peas cook for about 15 to 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Make sure to check on the pot occasionally and give it a stir to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
Serving and Enjoying Rice and Peas
Letting the Rice Rest
Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to steam and absorb any remaining liquid, resulting in a fluffy and perfectly cooked dish.
Fluffing the Rice
After the resting period, remove the lid and fluff the rice and peas with a fork. This step will separate the grains and prevent them from clumping together.
Serving Suggestions
Rice and peas without coconut milk can be served as a main dish or as a side alongside your favorite protein. It pairs well with jerk chicken, curry dishes, or even grilled fish. You can also garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
Conclusion
Cooking rice and peas without coconut milk is a simple and delicious alternative to the traditional recipe. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can still enjoy a flavorful and satisfying plate of rice and peas. Experiment with different seasonings and beans to create your own unique version of this Caribbean classic. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to prepare a quick and easy batch of rice and peas without coconut milk.