Introduction
This delicious recipe brings together the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean in a comforting dish of coconut rice and beans. The combination of kidney beans, creamy coconut milk, and aromatic spices creates a hearty meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for a family dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering, this one-pot meal is easy to prepare and packed with taste.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
50g (3 tablespoons) unsalted butter (or 2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil)
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon allspice powder (substitute with mixed spice if unavailable)
2 bay leaves, preferably fresh
1 Scotch bonnet or habanero chili (optional), kept whole
2 cans (400g / 14oz each) red kidney beans, drained
1 can (400ml / 14oz) full-fat coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon cooking salt
2 cups long-grain white rice
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Total Time
55 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful dish that is sure to please your taste buds and warm your heart!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) or 180°C (350°F) if using a fan-forced oven.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a medium or large ovenproof pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, dried thyme, allspice powder, bay leaves, and the whole Scotch bonnet or habanero chili. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, approximately 3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Beans
Pour in the coconut milk, water, drained red kidney beans, and salt. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Incorporate Rice
Add the long-grain white rice to the pot, giving it a quick stir. Once bubbles begin to break the surface, immediately cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 40 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. You may notice some coconut cream on the surface.
Step 6: Rest the Dish
Remove the pot from the oven and let it rest, covered, on the counter for 15 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid, resulting in a fluffy texture.
Step 7: Final Touches
Before serving, remove the bay leaves and the whole chili. Fluff the rice gently with a fork or rice paddle, then serve.
Notes
Substitution Options
If allspice powder is unavailable, you can substitute it with mixed spice.
Variations
The whole Scotch bonnet or habanero chili is optional; you may omit it for a milder flavor or adjust based on your heat preference.
Resting Importance
Allowing the rice to rest after baking is crucial for achieving the perfect fluffy texture. Do not skip this step.
Storage Suggestions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Melting Butter
Melt the butter over medium-high heat to create a flavorful base for your dish. Ensure it doesn’t brown.
Sautéing Aromatics
Sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until the onion is translucent, which enhances the dish’s flavor.
Simmering
Combine coconut milk, water, and beans, and bring the mixture to a simmer to meld the flavors before adding rice.
Baking Rice
Cover the pot with a lid and bake in the oven to cook the rice evenly and absorb the liquid without stirring.
Resting Period
Let the dish rest after baking to allow the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining moisture.
Fluffing Rice
Gently fluff the rice with a fork or rice paddle to prevent it from becoming sticky before serving.
FAQ
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute unsalted butter with canola or vegetable oil.
What if I can’t find Scotch bonnet or habanero chili?
You can skip the chili, but it adds extra flavor. Alternatively, use another mild chili for a bit of heat.
Can I use different types of beans?
Yes, feel free to substitute red kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.
How do I know when the rice is done?
The rice is done when all the liquid has been absorbed and the grains are tender.
Is it necessary to let the dish rest?
Yes, allowing it to rest helps the rice become fluffy and evenly cooked.
Conclusion
This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors, with the richness of coconut milk complementing the earthiness of red kidney beans and aromatic herbs and spices. The inclusion of thyme and allspice adds depth, while the option of a spicy chili introduces a kick for those who enjoy heat. Perfect for a wholesome meal, this baked rice dish is both satisfying and nourishing, making it a wonderful addition to any dinner table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Coconut Curry Chickpeas
A simple variation using chickpeas in place of the red kidney beans, adding curry powder for an Indian twist and perhaps some spinach for added greens.
Vegetable Jambalaya
Substituting the beans with a medley of diced bell peppers, zucchini, and corn, seasoned with Cajun spices for a flavorful vegetable jambalaya.
Spiced Quinoa and Black Beans
Swap rice for quinoa and use black beans instead of red kidney beans. Add cumin and coriander for a different flavor profile, along with fresh cilantro before serving.
Coconut Lime Shrimp
Integrate shrimp into the coconut milk sauce and enhance with lime juice and zest for a tropical flavor, served over the rice.
Cheesy Rice Bake
Incorporate a blend of cheeses into the mixture before baking, topping with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
Curried Lentil and Rice Pilaf
Replace kidney beans with lentils and add curry spices for an aromatic pilaf, great for a one-pot meal packed with protein.
