Pigeon Peas and Rice

Pigeon Peas and Rice from The Bahamas is a country staple and delicious one-pot wonder. Bacon fries in a pan and then cooks alongside rice and peas to make a savory, comforting side dish or main meal! Pigeon Peas have been a staple in The Bahamas since the 19th century. Pigeon peas and corn were planted next to each other in fields and harvested around the same time. Because of this, corn was ground into grits and mixed with pigeon peas to make a hearty and delicious side dish. As the years went on, rice finally found its way into the Caribbean through America. Corn grits moved to the side, and Bahamians began mixing their peas with white rice, cumin, tomatoes, and more. The method of cooking “browns” the rice and leaves the eater with a flavorful and satisfying dish.