Transport your taste buds to the tropics with this vibrant and aromatic Caribbean Rice recipe—an irresistible side dish or light meal loaded with island-inspired flavors. This easy-to-make dish features perfectly fluffy long-grain white rice simmered in creamy coconut milk and spiced with allspice and thyme, creating a fragrant base. Sautéed onions, garlic, and colorful bell peppers add depth, while tender peas and fresh scallions bring bursts of texture and freshness. With its subtle sweetness and savory notes, this crowd-pleaser is ready in just 40 minutes and pairs perfectly with grilled seafood, jerk chicken, or roasted vegetables. Garnish with parsley for a stunning presentation, and savor the essence of the Caribbean in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe is a celebration of tropical comfort food!
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well and set aside.
In a large saucepan or deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced bell pepper to the pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Stir in the scallions, ground allspice, and dried thyme. Cook for an additional 1 minute to toast the spices.
Add the rinsed and drained rice to the pan. Stir to coat the rice in the oil and vegetable mixture.
Pour in the coconut milk and water, then add the salt and black pepper. Stir everything to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, scatter the frozen peas over the top of the rice. Do not stir. Replace the lid and let the rice cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy it as a light, flavorful meal on its own.
Calories |
1074 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.1 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.6 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 16.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2463 mg | 107% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 186.9 g | 68% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.5 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 42.9 g | ||
| Protein | 19.9 g | 40% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 243 mg | 19% | |
| Iron | 9.3 mg | 52% | |
| Potassium | 1398 mg | 30% | |
*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.