Island Christmas Delight
A Festive Caribbean Special
The Island Christmas Delight is a traditional and beloved festive dish originating from the Caribbean islands. This celebration feast is known for its vibrant flavors, combining tropical fruits and spices that bring warmth to holiday gatherings. With influences from African, Amerindian, and European cuisines, this dish is a melting pot of flavors and cultures, embodying the essence of Caribbean Christmas festivities.
Ingredients
- Chicken (whole, about 4 lbs)
- Coconut Milk
- Pineapple (freshly diced)
- Ginger (finely grated)
- Garlic (minced)
- Thyme (fresh sprigs)
- Allspice (ground)
- Scotch Bonnet Pepper (chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black Pepper (to taste)
- Rice (long grain)
- Celery (diced)
- Bell Pepper (red, diced)
- Onion (chopped)
- Lime (juiced)
- Rum (dark)
Marinade Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine ginger, garlic, thyme, allspice, scotch bonnet pepper, salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
- Mix thoroughly and rub the mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it coats the entire surface.
- Cover the bowl or seal in a ziplock bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight to infuse the flavors.
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in a roasting pan.
- Pour the coconut milk over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Scatter pineapple chunks around the chicken in the pan.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Run the cooking timer to ensure even cooking.
- While the chicken is roasting, prepare the rice by sautéing onion, celery, and bell pepper in a saucepan.
- Once the vegetables are soft, add the rice and a splash of rum, stirring until the rice is toasted and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add two cups of water or coconut milk to the rice and let it simmer on low heat until cooked through, approximately 18-20 minutes. Set the cooking timer to manage this.
Serving Suggestions
Once the chicken is done, allow it to rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve each portion of chicken drizzled with pan juices and generous scoops of the prepared rice. Garnish with remaining pineapple and fresh thyme sprigs.
Enjoying Island Christmas Delight
This dish pairs perfectly with a side of fresh tropical salad or fried plantains. Enjoy with family and friends, reminiscing about traditional holiday stories and creating new memories. A cool refreshing beverage, such as a coconut rum punch, makes a perfect accompaniment to the meal.