Rice

Welcome to the rice section of my blog, where versatile, flavorful, and satisfying rice dishes take center stage. From classic Trinidadian favorites like pelau and fried rice to globally inspired creations like biryani and paella, this category is packed with recipes to suit every palate. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight side dish or an elaborate one-pot Sunday lunch, you’ll find detailed instructions and tips for perfect, fluffy rice every time. I’ll also share creative ways to elevate simple rice dishes with vibrant herbs, bold spices, and hearty additions. Dive into this collection and discover the endless possibilities of cooking with rice!

Simple Rice and Peas

Simple Rice and Peas

Rice and peas is a classic Caribbean dish that pairs beautifully with jerk chicken, stewed meats, or seafood. This simple version came together quickly when I had unexpected visitors while preparing Sunday lunch. Using pantry staples, including canned pigeon peas and jasmine rice, I created [continue reading]

Mummy’s Holiday Rice and Beans

Mummy’s Holiday Rice and Beans

A Thanksgiving Highlight Every family has that one special recipe that turns a simple meal into a cherished memory. For our family, it’s Mummy’s Jamaican-Inspired Rice and Beans – a show-stopping side dish that has become the star of our Thanksgiving feast. Mummy’s rice and [continue reading]

Paella With a Caribbean Twist

Paella With a Caribbean Twist

This recipe reflects my take on paella, a dish that might seem complex at first glance but is built from accessible, straightforward ingredients. It’s all about preparation and taking the time to coax out layers of flavor. The key to success lies in getting the rice texture just right.

Trinidad Vegan Pelau

Trinidad Vegan Pelau

Pelau is one of the most iconic Trini recipes and arguably the national dish of Trinidad. (See my Quick and Simple Chicken Pelau Here.) It’s a beloved one-pot rice dish that combines vegetables, beans, and traditionally, meat. However, in this ‘vegan pelau’, I swap out [continue reading]

Better than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice | Kitchen Essentials

Better than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice | Kitchen Essentials

This chicken-fried rice recipe is a family favorite. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch or dinner. I make this when I need a fast, easy, and delicious one-pot meal. I can guarantee that it is better–and healthier—than takeout!  If you don’t believe [continue reading]

How to Make the Perfect Rice for Fried Rice -Stovetop, Rice Cooker & Instant Pot

How to Make the Perfect Rice for Fried Rice -Stovetop, Rice Cooker & Instant Pot

Have you ever wondered how to make the perfect rice for fried rice—on the stovetop, in a rice cooker, and an instant pot? Wonder no more, I have experimented with each with some amazing results. One type of rice has challenged me over the years [continue reading]

Simple Healing Kitchari

Simple Healing Kitchari

The adventure of making a traditional kitchari-the simple version that Grandma made….. Last Sunday was earmarked as my official day off from the kitchen. With a playful decree to my husband that today, the oven stays cold and the stove remains untouched, I settled into [continue reading]

Yellow Rice and Peas with Coconut Milk

Yellow Rice and Peas with Coconut Milk

Yellow Rice and Peas with Coconut Milk This flavorful and easy-to-make yellow rice and peas is perfect for a weeknight meal, a weekend potluck, or even a holiday table. The fragrant coconut milk and adobo give the rice a beautiful yellow color, while the peas [continue reading]

Black Eyed Peas Pelau for Good Luck

Black Eyed Peas Pelau for Good Luck

Today we are making Trinidad black eyed peas pelau to ensure that the New Year brings with it lots of luck, including success, wealth, and prosperity. Before eating 12 grapes under the table on Old Year’s Night was a thing, eating Black eyed peas was [continue reading]

Caribbean Pumpkin Rice

Caribbean Pumpkin Rice

Transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked shores of the Caribbean with this tantalizing Caribbean pumpkin rice recipe. This dish not only captures the essence of the islands but also brings together flavors that will leave you yearning for more. Imagine the aroma of coconut-infused [continue reading]