Jamaican Rice and Peas

Step 1

Saute the aromatics. Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pot over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until soft and translucent, stirring often to prevent burning. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the garlic, ginger, fresh thyme, salt, pepper, ground allspice, and Scotch bonnet chile (or habanero). Mix well to combine. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes.

Step 2

Add the water and coconut milk. Add the water (or chicken broth) and coconut milk to the pot. Mix to combine and bring just to a boil.

Step 3

Add the rice. Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook the rice until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender, checking every 5 minutes and gently fluffing with a fork as it cooks.

Step 4

Remove from heat and add the beans. Remove pot from heat and gently stir in the drained and rinsed kidney beans. Cover and allow rice to rest for an additional 5 minutes before serving.