Island Peas and Rice

Infused with bold Caribbean flavors, Island Peas and Rice is a vibrant one-pot dish that effortlessly combines hearty pigeon peas, fluffy long-grain white rice, and creamy coconut milk. This comforting side or standalone meal is elevated with fresh thyme, aromatic garlic, and a subtle kick from an optional Scotch bonnet pepper. Perfectly seasoned with all-purpose spices and herbs, it delivers a taste of the tropics in every bite. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, this recipe is an easy and satisfying way to bring island-inspired cuisine to your table. Plus, with just 15 minutes of prep and plenty of soul-warming ingredients, it’s as convenient as it is flavorful!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups pigeon peas (canned or cooked from dried)
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 cups water or chicken stock
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 stalks scallions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning or seasoned salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter or cooking oil
• 1 piece scotch bonnet pepper (whole, optional for heat)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the butter or cooking oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the diced onion and scallions, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 5

Add the pigeon peas, fresh thyme, all-purpose seasoning, and ground black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to marry.

Step 6

Pour in the coconut milk and water or chicken stock, stirring well to combine.

Step 7

Gently place the whole scotch bonnet pepper into the pot (do not pierce it unless you want more heat) and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 8

Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir it in briefly to distribute evenly. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for about 20 minutes.

Step 9

After 20 minutes, check if the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. If needed, add a splash of water and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 10

Once cooked, remove the scotch bonnet pepper and thyme sprigs. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm, garnished with additional chopped scallions if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1616.8 grams (1616.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1038

Total Fat 4.00g	5%
Saturated Fat 0.90g	5%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2945mg	128%
Total Carbohydrate 215.20g	78%
Dietary Fiber 23.00g	82%
Total Sugars 34.60g
Protein 35.60g	71%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 276mg	21%
Iron 11mg	62%
Potassium 1991mg	42%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 3.5%

Protein: 13.7%

Carbs: 82.8%