Jamaican Gungo Peas & Rice Recipe

What are Gungo Peas?

Gungo peas, pigeon peas, or sometimes referred to a congo peas are a delicious legume, grown in a pod and is commonly used in rice and peas or to make soup! This delicious pea has a nutty flavor and is my favorite type of rice & peas to make because you can used canned pigeon peas without compromising on flavor.

What is the best type of rice to use for Jamaican gungo peas and rice?

If you’re new to making this dish, I’d suggest using parboiled rice. Why? Moisture retention is often a common issue when learning to make rice. If you’re not careful, your rice and peas will come out soggy! I suggest using parboiled rice to make Jamaican gungo rice and peas dish because parboiled rice has a high tolerance for moisture and it increases your chances of success! When you become more advanced and you’re able to make this dish with your eyes closed, then I’d recommend Jasmine rice .

Recipe

-1 can of dried pigeon peas (liquid drained and peas rinsed)

-2 1/2 cups of parboiled rice or 3 cups of Jasmine rice

-1 can of unsweetened coconut milk

-1 stalk of scallion, sliced lengthwise

-Few sprigs of thyme

-4 Allspice berries or 1 tsp of ground all spice

-1 tsp Salt

-400 mL of water (or simply fill the empty can of coconut milk with water and use it)

-1tbsp salted butter (optional)

Directions

I typically use a pot that can withstand heat and is approximately 3 quarts or larger such as this one : https://amzn.to/3m7Lt9f The first step is open the can of dried pigeon peas, and use a strainer to drain the liquid. Add the pigeon peas to your pot, 1 can of coconut milk, 400 mL of water (I usually fill the empty can of coconut milk with water and pour it in the pot), scallion, thyme, allspice, salt, and butter. Cover with a lid, place on medium heat and boil for 20 minutes. Next, rinse your rice and add to the pot. Cover and allow to cook for 20 minutes, occasionally stirring. Once all liquid has evaporated, and rice is soft with no hard grains, use a fork to fluff and your Jamaican gungo rice and peas should be ready!