How to Make Jamaican Rice and Peas

The Island of Jamaica has delivered many a tasty and original recipe. The traditional dish of Jamaican rice and peas is a flavorful treat that acts a wonderful side dish or it can be enjoyed on its own. This is a quick method of preparing it.

Things You'll Need

• A sprig of thyme
• 2 cups of water
• 2 cups of rice
• Heavy saucepan or pot
• A dash of salt and black pepper
• 3 pimento seeds
• 5 ounces of coconut cream
• A can of red kidney beans
• Measuring cup
• 2 stalks of scallion
• 2 pieces of bacon

Instructions

1. Put the beans into a heavy saucepan or pot.

2. Pour the coconut cream over the beans and bring to a simmer.

3. Place all ingredients except for the rice into the saucepan and stir for a few seconds.

4. Cover the pot and allow ingredients to simmer for about 8 or 9 minutes.

5. Add the rice and bring to a boil giving it an occasional stir to separate rice.

6. Reduce heat and then cover the pot, cooking until all the liquid has been absorbed.

Tips & Warnings

• Keeping a close watch while cooking rice and peas is essential because of the increase and reduction in temperature.

• One can use dried red kidney beans if they are soaked in water for 24 hours before cooking.

• Stir carefully when cooking so as not to burst the pimento seeds.