Jamaican Spiced Rice and Beans

Name: Jamaican Spiced Rice and Beans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 tsp thyme; 1 tsp allspice; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 green onions, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Spiced Rice and Beans because it brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean straight to my kitchen. This dish combines perfectly cooked rice with tender beans and a blend of spices that truly gets my taste buds dancing. It’s not only a delightful side but can also stand alone as a hearty main course. Each time I prepare it, I’m reminded of the warmth and richness of Jamaican cuisine, and it always impresses family and friends at our gatherings.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:04:22.487Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Spiced Rice and Beans at a local restaurant, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The balance of flavors from the spices combined with the creamy texture of the beans was simply unforgettable. Experimenting in my kitchen, I realized that cooking the rice in coconut milk really intensifies the flavor, giving it that authentic taste of the islands.

One of my favorite tips is to allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This little step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds. The aroma alone will transport you right to Jamaica!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold and aromatic spices that sing of the Caribbean
A comforting dish that pairs perfectly with any protein
Simple to make, yet impressively flavorful for gatherings

      

Understanding the Spices

In Jamaican Spiced Rice and Beans, the spice blend is what makes this dish truly unique. Allspice is a must-have, providing warmth and a slightly sweet undertone that harmonizes with the beans and rice. Equally important is thyme, which adds an earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. When adding these spices, make sure to sauté them with the vegetables to release their essential oils; this step enhances the overall aroma and depth of flavor in the dish.

Cayenne pepper introduces a hint of heat that balances the richness of the coconut milk. If you're sensitive to spice, you can adjust the cayenne to taste or omit it entirely. For those looking to experiment, smoked paprika can be an excellent alternative, adding a different layer of flavor while keeping the dish cozy.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

Achieving perfectly cooked rice can sometimes be a challenge, but this recipe simplifies the process. The key is to ensure that the rice is allowed to simmer in the coconut milk and broth without lifting the lid. This creates steam that cooks the rice evenly. If you notice the liquid is bubbling too vigorously, reduce the heat to low immediately; you want a gentle simmer rather than a roaring boil to prevent the rice from turning mushy.

It's also vital to give the dish a gentle stir when you fold in the black beans after cooking. Stirring too vigorously can break the rice and make it sticky. Instead, use a rubber spatula to lift and fold the rice, ensuring that the beans are incorporated without compromising the texture.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a delicious batch of Jamaican Spiced Rice and Beans!

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp allspice
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped for garnish

Now that you've gathered your ingredients, you're ready to get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Jamaican Spiced Rice and Beans.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Rice and Spices

Add the rice to the pot, stirring well to coat it with the oil and vegetables. Sprinkle in the thyme, allspice, and cayenne pepper, mixing everything together.

Combine Liquid

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.

Stir in Beans

Once the rice is done cooking, fold in the black beans gently. Allow everything to heat through for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and let the dish sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions.

Enjoy your homemade Jamaican Spiced Rice and Beans!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different beans or add some heat with fresh chilies if you like things spicier. This dish also pairs well with grilled meats or can be served as a vegetarian entrée.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about Jamaican Spiced Rice and Beans is its versatility as a make-ahead dish. You can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of water or additional coconut milk over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Be mindful to stir well while reheating to revive its original texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines as a side, but it can also stand alone as a hearty main course. To enhance the meal further, consider serving it alongside grilled jerk chicken or fish, which perfectly contrasts the subtle sweetness of the coconut milk. A fresh side salad can also introduce a nice crunch and acidity to balance the flavors.

For a vegetarian option, top the rice and beans with avocado slices, pickled red onions, or a squeeze of lime. These additions not only elevate the aesthetics of the dish but also add layers of flavor that make each bite delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Just ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly, which most are.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance, just reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ What can I serve alongside Jamaican Spiced Rice and Beans?

It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or can be enjoyed on its own with a side of salad.