Rice With Peas
A flavorful rice dish featuring tender ham, green peas, and aromatic vegetables, seasoned with Sazon and tomato sauce. Perfect for a hearty family meal or casual gathering, this dish combines savory and slightly spicy flavors, offering a satisfying and colorful addition to any dinner table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the diced ham in the vegetable oil for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the diced onion, green pepper, garlic, Sazon, and salt to the pan.
- Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the green peas and 4 cups of water, then bring to a boil.
- Add the rice and stir well.
- Leave the rice uncovered until most of the water is absorbed, then cover and cook for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lime juice before serving. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ham with diced mushrooms or tofu. For extra nutrition, experiment with brown rice instead of white, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as it takes longer to cook. You can also mix in some spices like cumin for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice With Peas is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with Southern Cooked Beans for a hearty meal. Serve alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner. For a unique twist, consider topping with a fried egg or serving it with a side of Easy And Good Brussels Sprouts for added color and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice With Peas contains roughly 242 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1740mg per serving (76% 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 frozen peas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen peas instead of canned. Just add them to the pot along with the water and allow them to cook until heated through. This will give you a fresher taste and vibrant color in your dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the vegetables. You could also drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish for an extra kick.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve. If you want to make it a complete meal, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp just before serving.
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).