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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Fluff rice with fork and let stand, covered, 5 to 10 minutes. Spoon rice onto plates and serve hot.