Antiguan and Barbudan Style Mountain Rice

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the original Croatian Planinski rižot is transformed into an Antiguan and Barbudan delight by incorporating Caribbean flavors and ingredients. The traditional Croatian spices are replaced with tropical spices like thyme, allspice, and Scotch bonnet peppers. Additionally, fresh seafood, such as shrimp and lobster, is added to enhance the dish's luxuriousness. The final touch is the addition of a tangy tropical salsa, which adds a burst of freshness and complements the flavors of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Planinski rižot, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) long-grain rice 2 cups (470ml) long-grain rice
• 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb (450g) lobster tail, chopped into bite-sized pieces 1 lb (450g) lobster tail, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced
• 2 sprigs of fresh thyme 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
• 1 tsp allspice 1 tsp allspice
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
2. 2.
   Add the shrimp and lobster to the pot and cook until they turn pink and opaque.
3. 3.
   Stir in the rice, thyme, and allspice, coating the grains with the flavors.
4. 4.
   Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. 5.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. 6.
   Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. 7.
   Fluff the rice with a fork and remove the thyme sprigs.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shrimp — Make sure to devein the shrimp properly before cooking to remove any grit or sand.
• Lobster — If fresh lobster is not available, frozen lobster tails can be used as a substitute. Thaw them before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
• Scotch bonnet pepper — Handle with caution and use gloves when mincing the pepper, as it is very spicy. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the shrimp and lobster in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and Caribbean spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
• If you prefer a milder spice level, remove the seeds and membranes from the Scotch bonnet pepper before mincing.
• Serve the Antiguan and Barbudan Style Mountain Rice with a side of fresh tropical fruit salad to balance the flavors.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. The flavors will further develop, making it even more delicious.
• Feel free to customize the dish by adding other seafood such as scallops or fish fillets.

Serving advice

Serve the Antiguan and Barbudan Style Mountain Rice as a main course, accompanied by a refreshing tropical drink. Garnish each plate with a sprig of fresh thyme or a wedge of lime for an extra touch of elegance.

Presentation advice

Present the Antiguan and Barbudan Style Mountain Rice in a large serving dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to shine through. Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley over the rice for a pop of green. Serve with the tangy tropical salsa on the side for guests to add as desired.