#2,671: Coconut Rice and Peas

Ok, I'll admit, this recipe is just a tiny bit weird.  I was definitely intrigued by it when I came across it in a recent issue of Food Network Magazine.  It combines 3 of my favorite things, coconuts, peas, and rice.  So I couldn't help but give it a try.

Although it IS a slightly bit weird, I actually really enjoyed it.  I felt like it needed something, more so I added in some sliced green onions.  I also wanted to make this more of a meal, so I added some chopped up cooked chicken sausage as well.  I really liked this.  It's not my favorite thing that I've ever eaten, but it was good.  And I think this would make a great side dish to something like jerk or Thai chicken, or maybe some grilled shrimp.

1 tbsp coconut oil
1/4 c sweetened shredded coconut (I used raw, unsweetened)
salt, pinch

red pepper flakes (to taste) 

3 cups frozen brown rice
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/4 cup coconut water (NOT coconut milk)

Cilantro, chopped (to taste)

I also added some sliced green onion

Heat 1 teaspoon coconut oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add shredded coconut and a pinch each of red pepper flakes and salt; toast, stirring, 3 minutes. Stir in frozen brown rice, frozen peas and coconut water. Cover, reduce the heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Stir in some chopped cilantro (and green onion).