Peas 'N Rice
Peas 'N Rice is a hearty, flavorful dish combining rice, pigeon peas, bacon, and vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp.
- Add green pepper and onion to the pan and cook until the onion is clear.
- Add water, peas, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and rice.
- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and simmer until all of the water has been absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try substituting the bacon with diced smoked sausage. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, use olive oil instead of bacon and replace the pigeon peas with black beans. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can spice things up. Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which can prevent it from becoming gummy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Peas 'N Rice as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or spicy main courses. It pairs beautifully with Okra N Rice for a complete meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added flavor. A side of cornbread or a fresh salad complements this dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peas 'N Rice contains roughly 370 calories, with 16g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and potassium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1131mg 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 different types of peas?
Yes, you can substitute pigeon peas with other legumes like black-eyed peas or chickpeas, depending on your taste preference. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure they're tender.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when cooking. You could also mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Peas 'N Rice a day in advance. Just reheat gently before serving. This allows the flavors to meld, often making it taste even better the next day.
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).