Discover the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with our Guyanese Style Cook Up Rice! This one-pot wonder is not only a staple in Guyanese households but also a delightful way to bring a taste of the tropics to your dinner table. Imagine fluffy rice infused with creamy coconut milk, tender black-eyed peas, and aromatic herbs, all coming together in a symphony of taste that will have your family asking for seconds. Ready to impress your taste buds and elevate your cooking game? Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to deliver a deliciously satisfying meal in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Guyanese
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rice
- 1 can black-eyed peas, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water as needed
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the 2 cups of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky during cooking. Drain well and set aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent.
- Next, add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper softens and the garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in the drained black-eyed peas, ensuring they are evenly mixed with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat the peas through.
- Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetable and pea mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
- Pour in the 2 cups of coconut milk and enough water to cover the rice by about an inch. This typically requires about 1-2 cups of water, depending on the type of rice used. Stir to combine.
- Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
- After the cooking time is complete, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid.
- Finally, fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot as a delicious main dish or side.
Tips
- Rinse the Rice: Always rinse your rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy rice and preventing it from becoming sticky.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Take your time with the onions, garlic, and bell peppers to unlock their full flavor potential before adding the other ingredients.
- Coconut Milk: For an extra rich and creamy texture, opt for full-fat coconut milk. It enhances the dish's flavor and gives it that authentic Caribbean touch.
- Water Adjustment: Depending on the type of rice you use, you may need to adjust the amount of water. Always ensure the liquid covers the rice by about an inch for optimal cooking.
- Don’t Lift the Lid: Once you cover the pot, resist the urge to peek! Lifting the lid can release steam and affect the cooking process, leading to unevenly cooked rice.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid and ensures a perfect texture.
- Garnish for Color: Consider garnishing your Cook Up Rice with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 0mg
