Rice with Green Peas
Rice with Green Peas is a classic comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This simple yet flavorful dish is a great option for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll appreciate the straightforward preparation and delicious results.
With its vibrant colors and comforting taste, Rice with Green Peas is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Ingredient Spotlight: Rice with Green Peas
Rice: The foundation of this dish is that rice provides a neutral canvas for the bold flavors of the green peas and seasonings. Popular choices include:
- White rice: A classic option known for its mild flavor and versatility.
- Brown rice: A healthier alternative with a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
- Jasmine rice: A fragrant rice with a slightly sweet taste.
Green peas: These small, round vegetables add a burst of color, sweetness, and texture to the dish. They can be used fresh, frozen, or canned.
- Olive oil: A healthy and flavorful oil that helps to sauté the onions and garlic.
- Onion: A versatile ingredient that adds depth and sweetness to the dish.
- Garlic: A pungent flavor enhancer that complements the other ingredients.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that bring out the flavors of the dish.
- Fresh herbs (optional): Parsley, basil, or cilantro can add a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
Tips:
- For a more flavorful rice, use jasmine rice or brown rice.
- If you prefer, you can use fresh peas instead of frozen peas.
- This dish can be served as a side dish or as a main course.
- To make it a complete meal, pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or a salad.
Pairing Ideas for Rice with Green Peas
Rice with Green Peas is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of proteins and sides. Here are some delicious suggestions:
Proteins:
- Grilled chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the fresh taste of the green peas.
- Pan-seared salmon: The delicate flavor of salmon pairs well with the savory rice.
- Stir-fried tofu: A healthy and flavorful option for vegetarians.
- Sautéed shrimp: The briny flavor of shrimp adds a nice contrast to the creamy rice.
Sides:
- Roasted vegetables: A colorful and nutritious side dish that pairs well with the rice.
- Salad: A light and refreshing accompaniment to the hearty rice.
- Crispy fried shallots: A flavorful topping that adds crunch and texture.
- A dollop of yogurt or sour cream: A tangy and creamy addition that balances the rich flavors of the rice.
Additional Tips:
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of NouBess sauce.
- To make the dish more flavorful, add a splash of soy sauce or fish sauce.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the protein and add extra vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers.
Experiment with different pairings to find your favorite combination.
A Note on Presentation
It’s interesting to hear how some people, especially children, have strong opinions about food presentation. While many adults might not think twice about mixing different colors on a plate, it’s clear that for some, it can make a big difference.
So, if you’re trying to get your kids to eat a healthier meal, consider how you present it. Sometimes, a little creativity can go a long way.
Enjoy!
I hope you enjoy this simple and delicious recipe for Rice with Green Peas. It’s a great way to add a touch of color and flavor to your meals. Don’t forget to have fun and be a kid at heart!
Rice with Green Peas
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 scallion finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon
- ¾ cup frozen peas
- 2 cups white rice rinsed and water drained
- 4 cups water
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, add olive oil, garlic, scallion, and chicken bouillon. Stir until spices are cooked but not burnt.
- Add frozen peas and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add rinsed white rice and stir to blend with spices and peas. Fry for 3-4 minutes, stirring gently occasionally.
- Add water and stir gently again. Bring to a boil.
- Once the water has almost evaporated, reduce heat to low, cover, and continue to cook for 15-20 minutes, or until rice is fluffy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with your favorite meat, poultry, or seafood dish.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of water.
- If you prefer a softer texture, cook the rice for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- To add a touch of sweetness, stir in a teaspoon of honey or sugar before serving.
- You can substitute brown rice for white rice for a heartier option.
- To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, omit the chicken bouillon and use vegetable broth instead.
Nutrition
Please keep in mind that nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary greatly based on the products used.
Nutrition info is automatically generated and provided as a courtesy and as an estimate only.
Corn Allergy:
Always choose ingredients without corn or corn derivatives.
Originally published on May 20, 2014. Revised and republished.
