Pea-Jag(Cape Verdean Rice Dish)
Pea-Jag is a flavorful Cape Verdean rice dish combining tender rice with peas, onions, and aromatic seasonings, perfect for a comforting and hearty meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions in oil in a saucepan.
- Add peas to onions and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add water, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Bring to a boil.
- Add rice, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting vegetable oil with olive oil or coconut oil. You can also use fresh or frozen peas instead of canned for a fresher taste. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added. Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains.
Serving Suggestions
Pea-Jag is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a side of grilled chicken or fish. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a unique twist, serve with Mustard Sauce For Vegetables for a tangy contrast to the rice dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave or warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pea-Jag(Cape Verdean Rice Dish) contains roughly 717 calories, with 11g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (244% of the Daily Value), iron (127% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1122mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the water to about 2 1/2 cups and simmer for around 40-45 minutes instead of 25 minutes to ensure it's cooked through.
What can I do if the rice is too sticky?
If your rice turns out sticky, it may be due to excess starch. For next time, make sure to rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. If it's already cooked, you can fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can include diced carrots, bell peppers, or corn for added color and nutrition. Just make sure to sauté them along with the onions to ensure they are cooked through before adding the peas.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).