Rice and Peas and Chicken | Jamaica Vlog | Outdoor Cooking

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: light coconut milk

💰Cheaper: milk

Light coconut milk reduces calories while maintaining flavor.

red kidney beans

🥗Healthier: black beans

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Canned beans save time and effort.

Introduce the dish and explain the concept of rice and peas in Jamaica.

Discuss the two styles of rice: Shelly rice (drier, more separate grains) and soft rice (more cohesive).

Explain the importance of testing the rice and knowing its characteristics before cooking.

Decide to use basmati rice and not wash it due to its mineral content.

Add water to the rice, ensuring it reaches about an inch above the first knuckle of the finger.

Advise to start with less water to avoid sogginess, as it's easier to add more if needed.

Add coconut milk to the rice for richness, aiming to use as much as possible.

Pre-pressure the peas to infuse flavor, mentioning that they should be about 3/4 cooked.

Check the amount of peas and decide not to use all of them, saving some for later.

Discuss the importance of heat control while cooking the rice to prevent burning.

Add seasoning to the pot, including crushed pepper, garlic, and butter, along with some sugar for sweetness.

Check the water level in the pot and the tenderness of the rice, noting that it is still tough.

Leave the rice to simmer, adjusting the heat to keep it low and prevent burning.

Cover the pot with a wet paper towel to trap steam and aid in cooking the rice evenly.

Check the consistency of the rice, confirming it has reached the desired Shelly texture.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary