Caribbean Coconut Rice with Garbanzos

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Caribbean Coconut Rice with Garbanzos

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

  1. Brown rice
  2. Coconut milk
  3. Garbanzos (canned)
  4. Onion
  5. Garlic
  6. Bell pepper
  7. Salt
  8. Cilantro

Instructions

  1. Rinse the brown rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
  2. Drain the canned garbanzos and set aside. Rinse them gently to remove any canning liquid.
  3. Finely dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the bell pepper into small, uniform pieces.
  4. 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.
  5. Add the chopped bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Pour in the coconut milk and add the rinsed brown rice. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
  7. Add the drained garbanzos to the pot and season with salt to taste. Stir gently.
  8. 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.
  9. Remove from heat and let the rice stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow further absorption and steaming.
  10. Fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
  11. Serve hot as a main dish or side, enjoying the creamy coconut flavor and protein-rich garbanzos.

Tips

  1. Rice Rinsing is Key: Always thoroughly rinse your brown rice to remove excess starch, which helps prevent clumping and ensures a fluffy final result.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Use fresh cilantro for garnishing - it adds a bright, fresh note that complements the creamy, rich base.
  5. Let it Rest: The 5-minute resting period after cooking is crucial. It allows the rice to finish steaming and absorb any remaining moisture.
  6. Customize Your Protein: Feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this a complete meal.
  7. 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

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