Trinidad Chicken Pelau Recipe

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How do you like your Pelau: wet or dry? I personally love my pelau in between not too wet or not too dry. Just right!

This hearty one-pot meal is rich, filling, and packed with a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.

It’s one of the Caribbean’s most beloved dishes and is often served at gatherings, family dinners, and even beach lime sessions.

What is Trini Pelau?

Pelau is a Caribbean dish that combines meat, rice, and pigeon peas cooked together in a single pot with spices, fresh herbs, and coconut milk.

It is made by browning the sugar to create a caramel base that adds a slightly sweet flavor to the dish. Pelau is a staple in Trinidadian cuisine, deeply rooted in the island’s history and multicultural influences.

The dish reflects the blend of African, Indian, and Creole culinary traditions brought to the region over centuries. Its name is derived from the French word pilaf, a nod to its similarity to rice dishes from West Africa and the Indian subcontinent.

What Meats Can You Use in Pelau?

Beef: Use cubed beef, seasoned similarly to chicken.

Pork: Tender cuts of pork add a slightly different texture and flavor to the dish.

Pigtail: Salted pigtail is a traditional addition in many households, offering a rich, smoky flavor.

Can You Make a Vegetarian Pelau?

Yes!

A vegetarian Pelau is not only possible but incredibly delicious.

Simply skip the meat and add a medley of hearty vegetables. Options like carrots, pumpkin, sweet potato, and bell peppers.

The process remains similar, with vegetables sautéed in the caramelized sugar for that iconic flavor. Don’t forget the coconut milk, which adds richness and a creamy texture.

A vegetarian Pelau is a wholesome and satisfying alternative that retains the essence of this dish.

Fresh Coconut Milk vs. Packaged Coconut Milk

Fresh Coconut Milk: You can grate fresh coconut flesh and extract its juice, this option has a rich, natural flavor that enhances the overall taste of Pelau. However, it requires more time and effort to prepare.

Packaged Coconut Milk: A convenient alternative that still delivers great flavor. Look for unsweetened, high-quality coconut milk for the best results. Packaged options are especially handy for quick weeknight meals.

My favorite is Maggie coconut milk.

What to Eat with Pelau?

Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy crunch of coleslaw is a classic pairing with the rich, savory flavors of Pelau.

Avocado: A few slices of ripe avocado add a buttery, fresh contrast to the dish.

Trini Potato Salad: This creamy salad made with mayonnaise, mustard, and fresh herbs complements Pelau beautifully.

Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing element to the meal.

How To Make Trinidad Chicken Pelau Recipe?

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or a mix)
• 1½ cups parboiled rice
• 1 can pigeon peas (or 1 cup cooked pigeon peas)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 cup coconut milk (fresh or packaged)
• 2 cups water
• 1 small carrot, diced
• 1 sweet pepper (bell pepper), diced
• 1 whole hot pepper (optional, for added heat)
• 2 table spoon of ketchup (optional)
• 2 table spoon of green seasoning
• 1 table spoon Golden Ray (optional)
• 1 Maggi-Chicken-Flavor-Bouillon Cube

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic, and thyme. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Caramelize the Sugar
Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and allow it to melt and bubble until it turns dark brown but not burnt.

Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the caramelized sugar and stir to coat each piece. Let the chicken brown for about 10 minutes.

Add Aromatics
Stir in the onions and carrots. Cook for another 2–3 minutes.

Add Liquid and Rice
Pour in the coconut milk, 1 cup of water , and pigeon peas. Stir well. Add the rice, the rest of the water, ketchup, green seasoning chicken cube, Golden Ray and mix to combine. Place the whole hot pepper on top for added flavor (optional).

Cook the Pelau
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Fluff and Serve
Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Trini Chicken Pelau is more than just a meal, it’s a reflection of the island’s vibrant culture and culinary traditions. Its rich flavors, tender meat, and creamy texture make it a dish that brings people together.

Read More Recipes

• Trinidad Tasty Stewed Chicken Recipe
• Trinidad Baked Potato Pie Recipe
• Trinidad Macaroni Pie Recipe