Name: Bahamas Peas and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 43 min
Total time: 53 min
Yield: 6-8
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 small yellow Onion, small dice; 1 small Red or Green Bell Pepper, small dice; 3 sprigs of fresh Thyme; 1 small Tomato, diced; 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste; 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 2 teaspoons Browning; 1 (19 ounce) can Pigeon Peas, drained; 1/2 cup Coconut Milk; 3 cups Water; 2 cups uncooked long-grain White Rice

Bahamas Peas and Rice, also known as Peas n' Rice, is a beloved staple in Bahamian cuisine, often featured at events, restaurants, family gatherings and Sundays. This one-pot dish combines the flavorful trio of tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions with fresh thyme to transform simple white rice into a rich, aromatic side that pairs perfectly with many main dishes like chicken, beef, or seafood. The addition of coconut milk brings a delightful creaminess, making it a must-try for anyone craving an authentic taste of the Caribbean.

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Versatile: Peas and rice pair well with a variety of proteins, such as chicken, pork, fish, or even tofu.
Comfort Food: Peas and rice is a hearty, comforting dish, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings, potlucks, and casual dinners.

Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients such as rice, peas, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices, making it easy to prepare.
One-Pot Dish: Peas and rice is made in one pot, which simplifies cooking and clean-up, making it a convenient option for busy cooks.

Cook the rice in a pot with a tight-fitting lid. It will help the rice to steam properly.
Let the rice steam over low heat. The rice will become scorched (burnt) if the heat is too high. Cooking the rice on low prevents it from burning.
Do not stir the peas and rice too much. Stirring the rice too much can give it a mushy texture. Stir it once after you add the rice, then cover it and let it cook undisturbed.
If the rice is still hard at the end of cooking time, add 2–4 tablespoons of water, cover it, and keep cooking the rice until it is tender.

You can serve peas and rice from the pot or place them on a serving dish. Peas and rice go well with chicken piccata, roast beef, air fryer cod, BBQ chicken, or smothered pork chops.

If you are a vegan, it pairs well with chana masala, Briam Greek Roasted vegetables, Morrocan chickpea soup, or lentil meatballs.

Kidney Beans: If you cannot find pigeon peas, you can use kidney beans instead. Pinto beans are also a good substitute.
Corn: If you cannot find pigeon peas, and you don't want to use kidney beans, you can make corn and rice instead. The corn will give the rice a burst of sweetness that complements the savory ingredients.
Browning: If you cannot find browning, use 2 teaspoons of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. It will give the rice a similar color and depth of flavor. Alternatively, you can make your own browning by caramelizing sugar until it turns dark brown.
Long-Grain White Rice: If you do not have long-grain white rice, use Jasmine rice, basmati rice, or even brown rice (note that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more water).

To store the peas and rice, place the leftovers in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Chef's Knife

Cutting Board

Electric Can Opener

Glass Measuring Cups

Large Heavy Bottom Pot

Large Spoon

Stainless Steel Measuring Cups

Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons

Can you freeze cooked rice and peas?

Yes, you can freeze cooked peas and rice. Place the leftovers in an airtight container or ziplock bag and freeze them for three months.

Are rice and peas healthy?

While peas and rice contain a healthy dose of vegetables, they also include white rice, which is high in glycemic index.

Can you reheat rice and peas?

Yes, you can reheat peas and rice. Place the rice in an airtight container and heat it in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. Alternatively, you can place it in a pot and reheat it on the stove over low heat until it is warm.

How long can I keep rice and peas in the fridge?

Peas and rice will last in the fridge for 3 days.

Author: Sarah Leadon

Total rating includes sum of all comments and anonymous votes.

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Time & Serves

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

43 mins

Total Time

53 mins

Serves

6-8

Ingredients

2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 small yellow Onion, small dice
1 small Red or Green Bell Pepper, small dice
3 sprigs of fresh Thyme
1 small Tomato, diced
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
2 teaspoons Browning
1 (19 ounce) can Pigeon Peas, drained
1/2 cup Coconut Milk
3 cups Water
2 cups uncooked long-grain White Rice

Instructions

Place the olive oil in a large pot and set it over medium-high heat.

Add the onions and bell pepper. Cook for 3 minutes until they soften.

Sauteing the onions and bell peppers in a large pot.

Add the thyme and tomatoes and cook it for 5–8 minutes, stirring often until the tomatoes release their juices and evaporate by half.

Sauteing the onions, bell peppers, thyme, and tomatoes in a large pot.

Next, add the tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes.

Sauteing onion, bell peppers, thyme, tomatoes, and tomato paste.

Add the kosher salt, black pepper, browning, pigeon peas, coconut milk, and water, and bring to a boil.

Adding the seasonings, wet ingredients, and pigeon peas.

Add the rice and stir to combine. Let it come to a boil, then decrease the heat to low, cover it with a tight-fitting lid, and cook the rice for 25–30 minutes until the rice is tender.