Caribbean Rice

In keeping with my Caribbean themed dinner, I made some Caribbean rice to go with my Bajan chicken stew Bajan Chicken Stew and my shrimp cornbread Cajun Shrimp Cornbread.

Our friend Jonathan asked me what make foods Caribbean. That’s a challenging question. As I mentioned in other posts, Caribbean foods are influenced by many different cultures from around the world. So there are little bits of each culture in every dish. But I would say some of the most defining characteristics may be a spicy dish with fruited accents. But most importantly, Caribbean foods are simple foods that nourish the mind, body and soul of the people. They are also simple foods. One of the most enduring concepts of Caribbean cooking, however, is that the food is meant to be shared and enjoyed with others.

Caribbean Rice

As with anything, there is always more than one way to make any recipe. I started off with a basic recipe and then expanded upon it from there. It’s just what I do. 🙂 Here is my latest take on a Caribbean favorite, celery and rice.

1 1/2 cups uncooked rice

3 cups water

dash of salt

olive oil

1/2 cup diced pineapple

2-3 large celery stalks, diced fine

1 can red beans, rinsed and drained

1-2 jalapenos, diced fine

1/3 onion, diced fine

1 TBSP ginger

1/4-1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Cook the rice. While the rice is cooking, saute the peppers, onions, pineapple, celery and ginger together in a hot skillet for about 3-5 minutes.

When the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, add the beans and cilantro and mix well.

When the rice is cooked completely, toss together with the vegetable mixture and serve hot.

Of course I had leftovers, so for round two, I served it with some pecan crusted tilapia topped with a lemon verbena (My backyard is once again exploding with lemon verbena.) cream sauce and bay shrimp. No pictures. Sorry. I forgot to take pictures while I was preparing this one.

Of course, this delicious rice dish is very good simply eaten on its own too. It is simple goodness, enjoyed the Caribbean way. 🙂

Have a great day and make everyday great. Stay safe and stay well. ‘Til next time.