Sweet Garden Pea and Rice Pilaf

The combination of rice and peas occurs in many cultures around the world and with good reason. Combining legumes and rice provides you with all of the essential amino acids you need for a complete protein. The affordability of both peas and rice around the globe also makes it an economical and well-balanced meal no matter where you are. This simple side is a brighter, fresher take on rice and peas using sweet frozen garden peas, brightened up with the slightly sharp taste of lightly steamed shallots. A little butter, salt and pepper are all you need to round out this dish, that is a delicious accompaniment to any entree.

Directions:

Spray a 2 quart saucepan with nonstick spray or use a non-stick saucepan. Add water, butter and olive oil and heat on medium until the butter just melts.
While water is warming and butter is melting, place rice in strainer and rinse with cold water until water runs clear. Stir melted butter into water and gently spoon rinsed rice into saucepan. Bring to a simmer, turn to low, cover and cook for 10 minutes.
While the rice cooks, toss the diced shallots (or onions) with the salt and pepper and set aside.
Pour boiling water over frozen peas and set aside to thaw.
After the rice has cooked for ten minutes, sprinkle the seasoned onions over the top of rice, return cover and continue cooking for 5 more minutes.
After five more minutes, drain sweet peas and sprinkle over rice and onions, return cover, turn off heat and let sit for 5 more minutes.
After five minutes, uncover and gently transfer pilaf to a large serving bowl. Toss gently to evenly mix and serve immediately!

(Serves 6)

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups (270 grams) Long Grain White Rice
2 ¼ cups (540 ml) Water
½ cup diced (75 grams) Shallots or Red Onions
2 Tbsp Butter
2 Tbsp Olive Oil
1 ½ tsp Table Salt
½ tsp Finely Ground Black Pepper
250 grams Frozen Sweet Baby Garden Peas (plus additional boiling water to thaw peas)

The combination of rice and peas occurs in many cultures around the world and with good reason. Combining legumes and rice provides you with all of the essential amino acids you need for a complete protein. The affordability of both peas and rice around the globe also makes it an economical and well-balanced meal no matter where you are. This simple side is a brighter, fresher take on rice and peas using sweet frozen garden peas, brightened up with the slightly sharp taste of lightly steamed shallots. A little butter, salt and pepper are all you need to round out this dish, that is a delicious accompaniment to any entree.

Simmer & Stir