A fragrant and hearty side dish of rice cooked with kidney beans, coconut milk, and aromatic spices—an island comfort classic.

Savor the rich flavors of the Caribbean with this classic Rice & Peas recipe. Made with tender kidney beans, creamy coconut milk, and a blend of spices, this dish is a staple across the islands and pairs perfectly with jerk chicken or fish.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Creamy and flavorful coconut rice
• Easy to prepare with pantry staples
• Perfect accompaniment to grilled or fried dishes
• Vibrant and aromatic spices

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 cup cooked red kidney beans (or canned, drained)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 ½ cups water or broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
• 1 scallion, chopped
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a pot, sauté garlic, onion, thyme, and scallion until fragrant.
2. Add Liquids & Rice: Add coconut milk, water or broth, and salt. Bring to a boil.
3. Add Beans & Pepper: Stir in kidney beans and whole Scotch bonnet pepper.
4. Cook Rice: Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid absorbed (about 20 minutes). Remove Scotch bonnet before serving.
5. Fluff & Serve: Fluff rice with a fork and serve hot.

Pro Tips & Substitutions

• Use pigeon peas as an alternative to kidney beans
• Adjust heat by removing or leaving the Scotch bonnet pepper whole
• Substitute coconut milk with light coconut milk for lower fat
• Add a dash of allspice for deeper flavor

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside jerk chicken, grilled fish, or curried goat
• Pair with fried plantains or steamed vegetables

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 7g
• Sodium: 420mg

Did You Try This Recipe?

Tag @comfortdishesofficial with your vibrant Caribbean Rice & Peas creations—we’d love to see your island flavors!