Pigeon Peas Rice with a Hearty Meal
Ingredients:
For the Pigeon Peas Rice:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 can (15 oz) pigeon peas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 1/2 cups chicken broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
For the Meal:
Option 1: Braised Chicken with Vegetables
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Option 2: Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa
- 4 pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
For the Pigeon Peas Rice:
- Prepare the Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Seasonings:
- Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground oregano, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate the Pigeon Peas:
- Add the drained pigeon peas to the pot and stir well, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Rice:
- Add the rice and tomato sauce, stirring to coat the rice grains with the sauce and spices. Pour in the chicken broth or water, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish and Fluff:
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Discard the bay leaf, fluff the rice with a fork, and stir in the fresh cilantro if using.
For the Meal:
Option 1: Braised Chicken with Vegetables
- Sear the Chicken:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, garlic, carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Braise:
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve:
- Plate the pigeon peas rice alongside the braised chicken and vegetables. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
Option 2: Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa
- Season and Grill the Pork Chops:
- Rub the pork chops with olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness.
- Prepare the Pineapple Salsa:
- In a bowl, combine the diced pineapple, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, lime juice, and fresh cilantro. Mix well and season with salt to taste.
- Serve:
- Place the grilled pork chops on a plate and top with a generous spoonful of pineapple salsa. Serve alongside the pigeon peas rice.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add more vegetables to the rice, such as diced tomatoes, corn, or spinach.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Meal Prep: The pigeon peas rice can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.
Enjoy your flavorful and hearty pigeon peas rice with your choice of a delicious main course!