Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will whisk you away to the sun-soaked beaches and vibrant flavors of the Caribbean! This mouthwatering Caribbean Coconut Rice with Garbanzos is more than just a recipe - it's a one-pot wonder that combines creamy coconut milk, hearty brown rice, and protein-packed garbanzos into a dish that's both comforting and exotic. Whether you're craving a quick weeknight meal or looking to impress your dinner guests with a tropical-inspired creation, this recipe promises to deliver a burst of flavor that will make your taste buds dance!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Caribbean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Brown rice
- Coconut milk
- Garbanzos (canned)
- Onion
- Garlic
- Bell pepper
- Salt
- Cilantro
Instructions
- Rinse the brown rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Drain the canned garbanzos and set aside. Rinse them gently to remove any canning liquid.
- Finely dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the bell pepper into small, uniform pieces.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chopped bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Pour in the coconut milk and add the rinsed brown rice. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add the drained garbanzos to the pot and season with salt to taste. Stir gently.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Remove from heat and let the rice stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow further absorption and steaming.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot as a main dish or side, enjoying the creamy coconut flavor and protein-rich garbanzos.
Tips
- Rice Rinsing is Key: Always thoroughly rinse your brown rice to remove excess starch, which helps prevent clumping and ensures a fluffy final result.
- Coconut Milk Matters: Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest, creamiest texture. Light coconut milk can work, but will result in a less luxurious dish.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Keep the heat low and cover tightly when simmering to allow the rice to absorb the liquid slowly and become perfectly tender.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Use fresh cilantro for garnishing - it adds a bright, fresh note that complements the creamy, rich base.
- Let it Rest: The 5-minute resting period after cooking is crucial. It allows the rice to finish steaming and absorb any remaining moisture.
- Customize Your Protein: Feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this a complete meal.
- Spice it Up: For extra Caribbean flair, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños for some heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg