Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Jamaica right to your kitchen! This Kidney Bean Curry Jamaican Style is a delightful fusion of creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices, and a kick of heat from the iconic Scotch bonnet pepper. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing your guests, this recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. In just 40 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that serves four, leaving everyone craving more. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover the secrets to making a mouthwatering Jamaican curry that will have you dreaming of sun-soaked beaches and rhythmic reggae beats!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Jamaican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Kidney beans, cooked
- Coconut milk
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Ginger, minced
- Thyme
- Scotch bonnet pepper
- Vegetable oil
- Salt
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Make sure the kidney beans are cooked and drained if using canned beans. Chop the onion, mince the garlic and ginger, and set them aside. Also, finely chop the Scotch bonnet pepper, removing seeds if you prefer less heat.
- In a large pot or skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Next, add the minced garlic and ginger to the pot. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is golden and aromatic, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the chopped Scotch bonnet pepper to the mixture. If you want to control the spice level, consider adding half of the pepper first and adjusting to your taste later. Stir well to combine.
- Now, add the cooked kidney beans to the pot. Stir them in gently to mix with the onion, garlic, ginger, and pepper mixture.
- Pour in the coconut milk and stir well to combine all the ingredients. The coconut milk will add creaminess and richness to the curry.
- Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme to the pot. If using dried thyme, about 1 teaspoon will suffice. Season the mixture with salt to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. If the curry becomes too thick, you can add a little water or additional coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the curry is done, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you want more heat, you can add more chopped Scotch bonnet pepper at this stage.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle.
- Serve the kidney bean curry hot over rice or with your favorite flatbread. Garnish with additional thyme or chopped scallions if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions, garlic, ginger, and Scotch bonnet pepper in advance. This way, you can focus on cooking when you're ready to start.
- Adjust the Heat: If you're sensitive to spice, start with half of the Scotch bonnet pepper and taste as you go. You can always add more for an extra kick!
- Creamy Consistency: For a creamier curry, use full-fat coconut milk. If you prefer a lighter version, opt for light coconut milk or even a mix of coconut milk and vegetable broth.
- Flavor Boost: Fresh thyme adds a beautiful aroma, but if you don't have fresh thyme, dried thyme works just as well. Just remember to use less, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Serving Suggestions: This curry pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or warm flatbreads. Consider serving it with a side of avocado or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stove.
- Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish your curry with chopped scallions or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving.Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite of this delicious Jamaican Kidney Bean Curry!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
