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Authentic Jamaican callaloo rice is a fun way to get your greens in, simmered in coconut milk, and is the best side to serve along your main entree!
What is Callaloo Rice?
Callaloo is a beloved spinach across Jamaica and the other Caribbean islands. It is usually sauteed and served alongside salted cod fish, but today we’re doing a unique twist. There are other non traditional ways for callaloo such as making a green juice, eating as a salad, or stuffin inside Jamaican Patties.
Callaloo Green Juice Recipe here!
This Jamaican callaloo rice is cooked with coconut milk, fresh herbs, and other delicious Jamaican dry seasonings. Let’s learn how to make it!
What you’ll need
- Canned Callaloo– Can be found in most grocery stores or Asian farmers markets with a Caribbean section. If not, purchase a can using this link.
- White rice
- Onion
- Scotch Bonnet Pepper (or Habanero)
- Bell Pepper
- Scallion
- Water
- Thyme
- Garlic Cloves
- Oil
- Coconut Milk
Seasoning you’ll need
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
- Jamaican All Purpose Powder– A must for all Jamaican-inspired recipes. Use this link to grab a bottle.
- Coconut Milk
- Italian seasoning
How to make callaloo rice
Step One:
Wash your canned callaloo properly and strain all the water out of it. Grate your garlic and finely chop your onion, scallion, bell pepper. Leave the thyme and do not cut or burst the scotch bonnet pepper as the seeds are extremely spicy.
Step Two:
Sautee your fresh herbs and then for 2-3 minutes then add in the strained callaloo. Stire for another 2 minutes before adding in the dry seasoning and rice.
Stir until everything is combined and slowly add in the water and coconut milk. Cover the pot and allow to cook on medium low heat for 20-25 minutes.
Step Three:
Be sure to monitor the pot to see if it needs more liquid. If the rice is not cooking properly or is too moist, try wetting a paper towel, squeezing out the water, and placing it on top of the rice. This will help to cook better and soak extra moisture up and is a trick used in rice and peas recipe.
What to eat with Callaloo rice
Callaloo rice truly adds a wonderful flavor to whatever is on your plate. Here are some dishes that pair beautifully with this easy side dish.
Vegan Jamaican Brownstew Chicken
Notes for Jamaican Callaloo Rice
This dish can be made with brown rice but the cooking time will need to be adjusted accordingly.
Do not cut or burst the scotch bonnet pepper! The seeds are extremely spicy and will make the dish too overbearing.
Fresh callaloo can be used but it must be stripped and chopped accordingly.
How to store Callaloo Rice
Due to the coconut milk in this dish, Jamaican callaloo rice can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. If you want it to store longer, try freezing in ziploc bags for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready to reheat, simply warm in the microwave or heat in a pot with a splash of water, constantly stirring.
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Check out these other side dishes you’ll love
Authentic Jamaican Rice and Peas
