Rice and Peas as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Rice and Peas is absolutely in that category. The boldly spiced quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. scotch bonnet does work that no substitute can replicate.

Jamaican jerk cooking traces to the Maroon communities who preserved meat with allspice and chilli. There's something about the a family Sunday dinner context that reinforces the comfort effect. Red Stripe beer alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.