Jamaican Rice and Peas

Name: Jamaican Rice and Peas
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) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 1/2 cups water; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 sprigs of fresh thyme; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/2 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Rice and Peas, a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious. Every time I prepare this recipe, the fragrance of coconut milk and spices fills my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. The combination of tender rice, creamy beans, and the aromatic herbs creates a comforting, satisfying meal that transports me to the Caribbean. I always serve it with some jerk chicken or fried plantains, making it a perfect addition to any dinner party or family meal.

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:13:07.777Z

When I first tried Jamaican Rice and Peas, I was captivated by the savory and sweet flavors that dance on my palate. This dish is a staple in Jamaican cuisine, and I quickly learned that the secret lies in using fresh ingredients and the right spices. I love to let the rice soak in the coconut milk, which gives it that creamy texture everyone raves about.

To elevate the flavors further, I like to simmer the rice with fresh thyme and scallions. One tip I always follow is to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch; this helps achieve the perfect fluffy texture. It’s a warming dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, and I can never get enough of it!

        What You'll Love About This Recipe
        Aromatic blend of coconut and spices
Creamy texture that pairs beautifully with meats
Easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in Jamaican Rice and Peas has a specific role that contributes to its rich flavor and creamy texture. The kidney beans provide a satisfying protein base and creaminess, while the coconut milk adds a tropical richness that complements the spices beautifully. The fresh thyme and green onions introduce herbal notes that brighten the dish and balance the richness. It's essential to use high-quality coconut milk here, as it significantly impacts the dish’s creaminess and flavor profile.

You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your dietary needs or preferences. For a healthier version, consider using brown rice instead of long-grain rice, which will add a nutty flavor and extra fiber. However, keep in mind that brown rice typically requires more liquid and longer cooking time—approximately 45-50 minutes. Additionally, if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, you may want to use vegetable broth in place of water for extra flavor.

Cooking Techniques for Perfection

The cooking technique is as crucial as the ingredients when making this dish. After bringing the mixture to a boil, it’s important to reduce the heat to low and cover the pot tightly. This step traps steam, which is essential for cooking the rice evenly while ensuring it absorbs all the flavors from the herbs and spices. If you notice the rice is cooking too fast or starting to stick, lower the heat even more, and you can add a splash of water if needed.

Once you've fluffed the rice after cooking, let it sit for 5 minutes. During this time, the residual steam will help the rice grains separate, resulting in a light and fluffy texture. Make sure to use a fork, not a spoon, for fluffing; this will keep the grains intact without turning them mushy. This step is vital for achieving that perfect texture that makes Jamaican Rice and Peas so beloved.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Jamaican Rice and Peas truly authentic:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 1/2 cups water
2 green onions, chopped
2 sprigs of fresh thyme
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious pot of Jamaican Rice and Peas:

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Combine Ingredients

In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, kidney beans, coconut milk, water, green onions, thyme, garlic, allspice, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low heat and cover. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Serve

Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal, serve Jamaican Rice and Peas alongside jerk chicken or fried plantains. The spicy and tangy notes of jerk chicken harmonize perfectly with the creamy rice, while plantains offer a contrasting sweetness that balances the flavors. You can also consider a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to add a fresh touch to your plate.

If you're feeling adventurous, transform your rice and peas into a hearty casserole. Simply mix in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and carrots, top with cheese, and bake until golden for a comforting twist on the classic dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish can easily be made ahead of time, making it great for meal prep. Once cooled, store your Jamaican Rice and Peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to maintain its creamy consistency.

When reheating, ensure the rice is warmed through and doesn't dry out. Stir occasionally and cover the pot to trap steam. If you're short on time, you can use a microwave; just cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

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

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Rice and Peas?

It pairs wonderfully with jerk chicken, grilled fish, or fried plantains.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use vegetable broth or water.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat thoroughly before serving.