Jamaican Spiced Rice and Beans

Name: Jamaican Spiced Rice and Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup white rice; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper (or to taste); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I adore Jamaican spiced rice and beans for its incredible combination of flavors and textures. Each bite bursts with the warmth of spices, complemented by the richness of coconut milk and the nutty essence of rice. Preparing this dish brings a slice of the Caribbean right to my kitchen. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices create a feast for both the eyes and the palate, making it perfect for sharing with family or friends. It's a delightful dish that not only satisfies hunger but also elevates any meal with an exotic twist.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:04:24.967Z

When I first tried Jamaican spiced rice and beans, I was captivated by its depth of flavor. The secret lies in the perfect balance of spices like cumin and thyme, which elevate the dish. I also love adding a splash of coconut milk that lends creaminess and cuts through the spices beautifully. It's amazing how such simple ingredients can combine to create something so flavorful!

One of my favorite tips is to let the rice rest after cooking. Cover the pot and take it off the heat for about five minutes; this allows the rice to absorb the remaining moisture, ensuring every grain is fluffy and succulent. Trust me, this little technique makes all the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        An aromatic blend of spices that transports you to Jamaica
Creamy coconut milk adds richness to every bite
Perfectly balanced dish that can accompany any meal

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving the vibrant flavor of Jamaican spiced rice and beans lies in the selection of spices and the quality of coconut milk. Using a full-fat coconut milk will impart a creamy texture that beautifully melds with the spices throughout the cooking process. While many recipes suggest just any canned beans, opting for high-quality black beans can elevate your dish. They should be well-rinsed to remove excess sodium and enhance their natural flavor, allowing them to absorb the aromatic spices better.

The scotch bonnet pepper is a quintessential element in Jamaican cuisine, imparting not just heat but also a distinct fruity flavor. For those who may be sensitive to spice, I recommend starting with half the suggested amount, as it can easily overpower the dish. Alternatively, you can use jalapeños or a milder pepper if you aim for a gentler heat while still capturing some of the complexity that the scotch bonnet provides.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

When sautéing the onion and garlic, be attentive to their color. A golden hue indicates they are cooked enough to release their flavors but be careful not to let them brown extensively, as this could introduce bitterness. For an even more aromatic experience, consider adding spices like allspice or coriander while sautéing, which are traditional in Caribbean cooking and can complement the existing flavors without overwhelming the dish.

The cooking time of the rice is crucial. Once you pour in the liquids, make sure to bring the pot to a vigorous boil before reducing the heat. This initial boiling is essential as it ensures the cooking process starts effectively. After covering the pot, resist the urge to lift the lid, as this releases steam and can lead to unevenly cooked rice. Allow it to gently simmer for the recommended 20 minutes, checking for doneness towards the end.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start your culinary adventure.

Ingredients

1 cup white rice
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper (or to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create this delicious Jamaican dish.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.

Add Rice and Spices

Stir in the rice, cumin, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently to toast the rice slightly.

Combine Liquids

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Finish the Dish

Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and fold in the black beans. Serve garnished with chopped green onions.

Enjoy this stunning dish as a side or a main course!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing with lime juice or a fresh cilantro sprinkle before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican spiced rice and beans can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty dish, but it also makes a fantastic side for grilled proteins such as jerk chicken or fish. The creamy texture of the rice complements the smoky flavors of the grilled items beautifully, making for a complete meal. Consider serving it with slices of fresh pineapple or a light salad to balance the richness and add a refreshing touch.

For a fun twist, try using this rice and beans mixture as a filling for burritos or tacos. Simply warm some tortillas and load them up with the spiced rice, then top with your favorite condiments like avocado, pico de gallo, or a zesty lime crema. This variation not only adds diversity to your meals but also showcases the dish in new and exciting ways.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’d like to prepare this dish ahead, it stores beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore moisture; this prevents the rice from becoming dry and clumpy during the heating process.

For longer storage, you can freeze the rice and beans mixture for up to three months. Portion it into smaller containers for easy meal prep. To reheat from frozen, defrost overnight in the fridge and then warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through. This way, you can enjoy a taste of the Caribbean even on the busiest of days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice may require a longer cooking time and additional liquid.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of scotch bonnet pepper added.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! It is already vegan-friendly when using vegetable broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.