Caribbean Cook-up Rice
The term “cook-up” is a Caribbean expression that refers to a dish that incorporates the ingredients you have on-hand in the kitchen. In this version, we combine rice, beans and vegetables with a little coconut milk and curry powder for a zesty tropical flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 T canola oil
- 1 medium yellow onion , diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper , seeded and diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic , minced
- ½ scotch bonnet pepper , seeded and minced (optional)
- 3½ C water
- 2 C uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 15-oz can red kidney beans , rinsed and drained
- ½ C coconut milk
- 2 t curry powder
- ½ t dried thyme
- ½ t freshly ground black pepper
- ½ t salt
Instructions
- In large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic and Scotch bonnet pepper and cook, stirring often, until vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in water, rice, beans, coconut milk and seasonings and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat, cover arid until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, 15 to 20 minutes.
- Fluff rice with fork and let stand, covered, 5 to 10 minutes. Spoon rice onto plates and serve hot.