The first bite of coconut rice and peas was nothing short of magical, and brought an instant sense of comfort and joy. It was more than just food; to us it was an homage to the cultural and diverse environment that Brooklyn provided, a place where different traditions came together to create something beautiful and unique.

As I took my first bite, I was instantly transported. The flavors were bold and rich, with each bite revealing a perfect blend of spices, tomatoes, and perfectly cooked rice. It was a burst of flavor.

This simple yet flavorful dish was the impetus for creating PAPA’s Rice. We wanted to share this beloved recipe with others, allowing more people to experience the joy and comfort it brought to our family while preserving the rich culinary heritage that made red beans and rice our family’s favorite.

When the time finally came, Papa ceremoniously removed the brick and lifted the lid, releasing a cloud of aromatic steam. The sight of the perfectly cooked diri djon djon was a visual treat, but the taste was something else entirely. Each bite was a burst of flavor, a testament to Papa’s culinary skills and his love for the family.