Here is another Sunday or Christmas rice recipe that you’ll love.
Calypso white rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that adds a Caribbean twist to plain white rice.
It’s infused with rich seasonings, herbs, and just a hint of butter to elevate the taste, making it a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with many meals.
The name “Calypso” evokes the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean, and this dish captures that essence with its aromatic flavors and easy preparation.
What is Calypso Rice?
Calypso rice is a Caribbean-inspired dish that takes basic white rice and transforms it with the addition of bold seasonings and subtle aromatics.
It’s cooked with a touch of butter and Maggi green seasoning—a popular Caribbean ingredient made from a blend of fresh herbs and spices.
This simple yet delicious rice is not overly complex, allowing the flavors of whatever you pair it with to shine.
What to Eat with Calypso Rice?
Curry: Serve with curry chicken, goat, or shrimp for a perfect balance of flavors.
Stewed Meats: Pair it with Caribbean-style stewed chicken or beef.
Seafood: Grilled or fried fish, shrimp, or lobster complement the simplicity of the rice.
Vegetables: Add a side of sautéed or steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Beans or Peas: Serve alongside pigeon peas, black beans, or red beans for extra heartiness.
Substitutes
- Maggi Green Seasoning: If unavailable, use a homemade blend of chopped cilantro, parsley, scallions, garlic, and thyme. Add a pinch of salt and lime juice for extra zing.
- Butter: Substitute with margarine or a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free option.
- White Rice: You can use basmati, jasmine, or even brown rice if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Calypso White Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice (long grain, basmati, or jasmine)
- 1 carrot ( chopped/ grated)
- 1 chopped green bell pepper
- 1 chopped red pepper
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 whole corn (optional)
- 2 teaspoons butter (or margarine)
- 1 tablespoon Maggi green seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or scallions
Instructions
Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
Heat the Butter: In a medium-sized pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the Maggi green seasoning, carrots, bell peppers, garlic, and corn. Stir for 1-2 minutes to release its aroma.
Add the Water: Pour in the water and bring it to a boil. Add the salt and black pepper, stirring to combine.
Cook the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the pot, stirring gently to ensure the grains are evenly distributed. Once the water returns to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for about 15-18 minutes.
Fluff and Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley or scallions if desired. Serve warm with your favorite dish.
FAQ
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice is a healthy alternative. Keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time and more water (typically 2.5 cups of water for 1 cup of brown rice).
2. Is Maggi green seasoning spicy?
No, Maggi green seasoning is not spicy. It’s an herb-based seasoning that adds depth and flavor to the dish. However, if you like spice, you can add a dash of hot sauce or chopped chili peppers to the rice.
3. Can I make Calypso rice in a rice cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all the ingredients in your rice cooker, give it a quick stir, and cook as per your rice cooker’s instructions. The flavors will still infuse beautifully.
4. Can I make Calypso rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Calypso rice ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore its moisture.
5. What’s the best way to prevent rice from sticking?
Rinsing the rice thoroughly before cooking and using the correct water-to-rice ratio helps prevent sticking. Also, avoid lifting the lid while the rice is cooking to ensure even steaming.
6. Can I freeze leftover rice?
Yes, Calypso rice freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
7. Can I add vegetables to the rice?
Certainly! You can mix in diced carrots, peas, or corn during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.
Calypso white rice is the perfect way to add a touch of Caribbean flavor to your meals. With its fragrant green seasoning and buttery texture, it’s a dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Pair it with your favorite sides and mains, and you’ll have a delicious, island-inspired meal that’s sure to impress!
More Caribbean Rice Recipes
Calypso White Rice Recipe
Course: Sides, RiceCuisine: CaribbeanDifficulty: Easy4
servings5
minutes20
minutes150
kcalCalypso white rice is the perfect way to add a touch of Caribbean flavor to your meals. With its fragrant green seasoning and buttery texture, it’s a dish that’s easy to make.
Ingredients
1 cup white rice (long grain, basmati, or jasmine)
1 carrot ( chopped/ grated)
1 chopped green bell pepper
1 chopped red pepper
2 cups water
1/2 whole corn (optional)
2 teaspoons butter (or margarine)
1 tablespoon Maggi green seasoning (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or scallions
Directions
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
- Heat the Butter: In a medium-sized pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the Maggi green seasoning, carrots, bell peppers, garlic, and corn. Stir for 1-2 minutes to release its aroma.
- Add the Water: Pour in the water and bring it to a boil. Add the salt and black pepper, stirring to combine.
- Cook the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the pot, stirring gently to ensure the grains are evenly distributed. Once the water returns to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for about 15-18 minutes.
- Fluff and Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley or scallions if desired. Serve warm with your favorite dish.