Bélé Surprise

About Bélé Surprise

Bélé Surprise is a fusion dish with roots that blend Caribbean and French culinary traditions, making it a delightful treat for food lovers. This vibrant dish is inspired by Bélé, a traditional folk dance from the Caribbean islands, capturing its essence through a flavorful combination of coconut, pineapple, and spices. The dish celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean islands and their tropical flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Jasmine rice
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 cup diced pineapple
• 4 chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 2 teaspoons Caribbean spice blend
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before starting the cooking process, it's essential to prepare all the ingredients. This includes chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, slicing the red bell pepper, and cutting the chicken breasts into strips. Make sure to have everything ready as it makes the cooking process more seamless.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with Caribbean spices, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to infuse into the chicken, providing a rich taste after cooking.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Cooking the Rice

While the chicken is marinating, start cooking the Jasmine rice. In a pot, combine 2 cups of rice with 1 can of coconut milk and 1 cup of water. Stir everything together and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

Step 4: Sautéing the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add the garlic and red bell pepper, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they soften.

Step 5: Cooking the Chicken

Increase the skillet’s heat to medium-high and add the marinated chicken strips to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Adding Pineapple

Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced pineapple to the skillet. Stir everything together until the pineapple is warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. The pineapple adds a sweet and tangy element to the dish, perfectly balancing the savory spices.

Serving Bélé Surprise

To serve, place a portion of the coconut rice on a plate and top with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added burst of freshness and color.

Enjoying Bélé Surprise

Bélé Surprise can be enjoyed as a main course and is perfect for any dinner occasion. The dish delights the taste buds with its combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Pair it with a chilled tropical drink to enhance the Caribbean dining experience. Remember to set a timer for any snacks or sides you want to serve alongside!