Diri Ak Pwa Kolé : Rice and Beans

Prepare to feast your taste buds and savor the rich flavor of this classic Haitian dish, with its deep, rich flavors. Let's dive in!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of Jasmine or Basmati rice

• 1 to 2 cups black or pinto beans (cooked or canned)

• 1/2 onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons vegetable or avocado oil

• 1 teaspoon thyme (optional)

• 1 tablespoon of butter (optional)

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 2 ½ cups water (enough to cover the rice)

• 1 bonnet or habanero pepper (for aroma)

• Fresh parsley or scallions (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat the using vegetable or avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onions turn translucent, releasing their delightful aroma.

2. Flavorful Fusion:

Introduce the cooked or canned beans to the pot, along with the thyme, and salt. Stir well, allowing the seasonings to meld with the beans, creating a flavor explosion.

3. Rice Integration:

After washing your rice. Add the uncooked rice to the pot, stirring it into the bean mixture to ensure every grain is coated with savory goodness. This step ensures that each bite of rice is infused with the flavors of the beans and aromatic base.

4. Simmer to perfection:

Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add butter, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes on medium to low heat. This allows the rice to cook and absorb the flavors, transforming it into a delectable companion for the beans.

5. Fluff and Garnish:

Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the rice to attain the perfect texture. Finally, use a fork to fluff the rice, separating the grains. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley or scallions to add a pop of color and freshness.

Once you take that first bite, you’ll know why Diri ak Pwa Cole is loved so much—it’s a true flavor feast