Jamaican Rice And Peas Recipe With Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil

When I want a taste of the Caribbean at home, this easy jamaican rice and peas recipe with Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil is my go-to. The rich, smoky aroma from the Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil instantly fills my kitchen, promising a deeply satisfying dish that’s both creamy and vibrant. Perfect for busy families, comfort food lovers, or anyone wanting a delicious taste of the Caribbean at home. Even on a hectic Tuesday, this classic side dish, elevated with its unique spicy kick, comes together beautifully and quickly becomes a cherished family favorite.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Why They Matter)

Core Ingredients & Their Purpose

• Long Grain Rice: 2 cups (360g). The classic choice for a fluffy base that absorbs all the flavors.
• Canned Kidney Beans: One 15-ounce (425g) can, drained and rinsed. Adds traditional creamy texture, color, and a good source of plant-based protein.
• Full-Fat Coconut Milk: One 13.5-ounce (400ml) can. Essential for rich, authentic creaminess and a subtle sweetness that balances the heat (or light coconut milk if that’s what you have for a lighter dish).
• Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil: 1-2 tsp. Our secret ingredient for a signature smoky, fruity heat and vibrant island essence.
• Fresh Thyme Sprigs: 2-3 sprigs. Infuses an aromatic, earthy flavor that’s distinctly Jamaican.
• Garlic & Onion: 1 small onion, chopped, and 2 cloves garlic, minced. The aromatic foundation, building deep layers of flavor (or a teaspoon each of garlic and onion powder in a pinch).
• Water or Vegetable Broth: 1 cup (240ml). The primary cooking liquid, ensuring tender rice.
• Salt & Black Pepper: 1 tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper. Essential seasonings to enhance all the ingredients.

Smart Swaps & Enhancements

• For a Healthier Twist: Use brown rice for extra fiber, or low-fat coconut milk for fewer calories. This makes for a healthy meal.
• Bean Alternatives: While kidney beans are traditional, black beans can offer a similar texture if needed.
• Flavor Boosters: A few whole allspice berries simmered with the rice, or a bay leaf for extra depth.
• Premium Pick: Choose organic, unsweetened coconut milk for the purest flavor in your family-friendly dishes.

How to Make Jamaican Rice and Peas Step by Step

Here’s how to bring your flavorful jamaican rice and peas recipe with Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil to life:

1. Prep the Rice: Rinse 2 cups of long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear, about 1-2 minutes. This removes excess starch for fluffier grains.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of neutral oil over medium heat. Add 1 small chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant, giving off a sweet aroma. Stir in 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme.
3. Build the Liquid Base: Drain and rinse one 15-ounce can of kidney beans. Add them to the pot along with one 13.5-ounce can of full-fat coconut milk and 1 cup of water or vegetable broth. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil (adjust to your spice preference), 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, with small bubbles forming at the surface. For my kids, I often add just a tiny dash of the oil here, then drizzle extra over the adults’ plates to control the heat.
4. Add Rice & Simmer: Stir in the rinsed rice. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice looks tender. Do not lift the lid during cooking; this traps essential steam!
5. Rest & Fluff: Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the steam to finish cooking the rice evenly and separate the grains.
6. Serve: Gently fluff the Jamaican rice and peas with a fork before serving. The grains should be distinct and soft. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired. This makes a great quick meal for busy weeknights.

Quick Tips & Troubleshooting

• Rice Too Wet? If the rice isn’t fully cooked and still has liquid after simmering, cook for another 5-10 minutes uncovered over very low heat, stirring occasionally, until the liquid evaporates.
• Rice Too Dry? If the rice is dry but still a bit firm, add a splash (¼ cup) of hot water or broth, cover, and cook for a few more minutes over low heat until tender.
• Spice Level Adjustment: For less heat in your jamaican rice and peas recipe with Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil, use less Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil initially and offer extra on the side. This is perfect for family-friendly adjustments.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Everyday Meals & Special Moments

• Weeknight Warrior: This easy, hearty jamaican rice and peas recipe with Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil makes healthy recipes for dinner a breeze, pairing well with any protein.
• Family Gatherings: A truly crowd-pleasing addition for BBQs, potlucks, or holiday feasts, sure to delight everyone.
• Meal Prep Magic: Prepare a large batch for convenient, high-protein meals throughout the week, simplifying your family meal prep.

Perfect Pairings

• Proteins: Serve this flavorful rice alongside jerk chicken, curried goat, baked fish, or tender stewed beef.
• Vegetables: Steamed callaloo, crispy fried plantains, or a simple fresh green salad beautifully complement the rich flavors.
• Toppings: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, extra scallions, or a drizzle of your preferred hot sauce for an extra kick.

Nutrition & Everyday Wellness with Jamaican Rice and Peas

Wholesome Benefits for Your Family

• Balanced & Filling: This dish offers wholesome carbohydrates from rice, plant-based protein from kidney beans, and healthy fats from coconut milk.
• Sustained Energy: A complex carb powerhouse, it provides lasting energy crucial for active families and busy days.
• Fiber-Rich: Kidney beans contribute a good dose of dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and overall wellness.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Crafted from real, unprocessed ingredients, this jamaican rice and peas recipe with Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil supports a healthy eating lifestyle.

How This Recipe Solves Common Needs

Convenience, Value, and Health for Busy Lives

• Time-Saving: A straightforward, one-pot recipe, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and significantly minimizes cleanup.
• Budget-Friendly: This satisfying and flavorful meal utilizes economical pantry staples, offering great value for your family’s table.
• Nutritious & Delicious: A healthy and tasty alternative to less wholesome convenience foods, it fits perfectly into family meal prep ideas.

Expert Pointers and Smart Variations

Elevate Your Cooking Skills

• No Peeking!: Resist lifting the lid while the rice simmers; this traps essential steam for perfectly cooked, fluffy grains.
• Toast the Rice: For an extra nutty depth, I sometimes lightly toast the rinsed rice in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding liquids.
• Fresh is Best: While canned kidney beans are super convenient, using dried beans (soaked and cooked) can offer an even richer flavor.

Family-Friendly Tweaks

• Kid-Friendly: Reduce or omit the Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil and offer it on the side for adults, or stir in finely diced bell peppers for extra veggies.
• Spice Control: Start with less Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil if you’re sensitive to heat, and simply add more to taste after cooking this delicious jamaican rice and peas recipe with Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil.
• Add Veggies: Stir in frozen mixed vegetables or chopped spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.

Allergy-Friendly & Dietary Swaps

• Gluten-Free: Always ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free for a truly safe meal.
• Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan! Just double-check that your Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil is plant-based, which most are.

Common Questions About Jamaican Rice and Peas

Your Cooking Queries Answered

Can I freeze Jamaican rice and peas for later? Yes! Cooked jamaican rice and peas freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

What’s the healthiest way to make Jamaican rice and peas? To make your jamaican rice and peas recipe with Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil even healthier, opt for brown rice, use light coconut milk, and consider adding extra vegetables like diced carrots or bell peppers. The Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil provides beneficial healthy fats.

Which ingredients are best for meal prepping Jamaican rice and peas? For meal prepping this jamaican rice and peas recipe, using long-grain white rice ensures a consistent texture upon reheating. Canned kidney beans save time, and the robust flavors from Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil and thyme hold up exceptionally well.

How do I make my Jamaican rice and peas less spicy? Simply reduce the amount of Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil you add during cooking. You can always offer it as an optional drizzle for those who enjoy more heat, keeping it family-friendly for everyone.

Can I use fresh kidney beans instead of canned for this Jamaican rice and peas recipe? Absolutely! Just be sure to soak and cook your fresh kidney beans thoroughly before adding them to the recipe. This ensures they are tender and cook evenly with the rice.

What is the best type of rice for Jamaican rice and peas? Traditionally, long-grain white rice is preferred for its fluffy, separate grains, making it an excellent choice. However, jasmine or basmati rice can also yield excellent results for your jamaican rice and peas recipe, depending on your preference.

This easy jamaican rice and peas recipe with Sunset Scotch Bonnet Oil isn’t just a side dish; it’s a flavorful journey to the heart of Caribbean cooking that I love making for my family. Pin this convenient, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying family dinner recipe to your favorites today!

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