Rice and Peas — Ad-Free Recipe, Ingredients First

The peas are actually kidney beans, and the coconut milk is the whole point. Cook the beans first so their starchy liquid tints the rice, then float a whole scotch bonnet on top for perfume without heat, and pull it before it bursts.

The Ingredients — and where to get them

Cook for 6 servings

Red kidney beans

Dried beans cooked from scratch give the pink cooking liquid that colors the rice; canned works but loses that.

1 cup dried

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Long-grain rice

Firm grains stay separate in the coconut liquid instead of turning to porridge.

2 cups

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Coconut milk

Full-fat gives the richness that defines the dish; light versions taste thin.

1 can (13.5 oz)

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Scotch bonnet

Left whole and unbroken it perfumes the pot without spreading heat.

1 whole

Local / market

Fresh thyme and scallion

The standard Jamaican aromatic base; add both whole.

4 sprigs plus 2 stalks

Local / market

Whole allspice berries

A few pimento berries dropped in the pot round out the coconut with warm spice.

6 berries

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The Rundown

Greedometer ●●●●● Squeaky clean

About as virtuous as dinner gets. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time

EffortSome doing

Cook it with

Instant PotSlow cookerOne-pot

The Method

Cook the beansSimmer soaked kidney beans in water 45 to 60 minutes until nearly tender, keeping the cooking liquid.
Build the potAdd coconut milk, thyme, scallion, garlic, and the whole scotch bonnet to the beans and their liquid.
Add riceStir in rinsed rice; liquid should sit about an inch above the rice. Bring to a boil.
SteamCover, drop to low, and cook 20 to 25 minutes until liquid is absorbed; fluff and remove the pepper and thyme stems.

The Toolkit

Heavy lidded pot · Fine mesh strainer · Wooden spoon · Measuring cup

Straight Answers

Can you make Rice and Peas in an air fryer? — Sometimes

Sometimes — if the pieces are small and cooked dry, an air fryer can handle it in a single layer; anything saucy or liquid needs a pan. When in doubt, the stovetop or oven is the safe call.

Can you freeze Rice and Peas? — Yes

Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can you make Rice and Peas ahead of time? — Yes

Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Is Rice and Peas gluten-free? — Yes

Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.

Is Rice and Peas vegan? — Yes

Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.

Community Notes

Cooked it? Changed something that worked? Leave a note for the next person — first-name basis, no account.

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© 2026 5best2buy.com · Recipe No.385

Rice and Peas, and where to source it