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 white rice; 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 1/2 cups water; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional); Salt, to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Growing up, Jamaican Rice and Peas was a staple dish in our household. Every Sunday, the aroma of coconut milk and spices would fill the kitchen, tempting us to gather around the table. This dish combines perfectly cooked rice with tender beans, all infused with a blend of herbs. The vibrant flavors and textures make it an unforgettable accompaniment to any meal, or even as a hearty main dish.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:09:59.596Z

I remember the first time I tasted Jamaican Rice and Peas—it was like a burst of flavor with every bite. The key to this dish is using fresh ingredients, especially the herbs, which bring a unique depth to the rice and beans. We often experiment with spices, and I’ve found that adding a little thyme and scallion elevates the dish to another level.

One technique I always emphasize is cooking the rice slowly in the coconut milk. This method ensures each grain is infused with the rich, creamy flavor, while still keeping the beans tender. It’s a simple dish, but the love and care you put into it truly shine through in the final result.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The fragrant aroma of coconut and spices fills your kitchen.
A comforting and filling dish perfect for any occasion.
Great for meal prep—perfectly reheats and retains flavor.

      

Understanding Key Ingredients

Rice is the star of this dish, and using a high-quality white rice is essential for the perfect texture. Long-grain varieties like basmati or jasmine are excellent choices as they remain fluffy and separate during cooking. Be sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which could lead to clumping. For a nuttier flavor, consider substituting half of the white rice with brown rice, but be mindful that brown rice will require a longer cooking time—typically about 40-45 minutes.

Coconut milk not only adds creaminess but also infuses the dish with rich flavor. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for the best results; it enhances the dish’s richness and helps retain moisture. If you're looking for a lighter option, low-fat coconut milk can work, but be aware that it may alter the creaminess that defines traditional Jamaican Rice and Peas. If you’re unable to find coconut milk, consider using homemade coconut cream made from shredded coconut and water.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

When combining all the ingredients in your pot, ensure even distribution to promote uniform cooking. Stir gently to avoid breaking the beans and remember not to over-stir during cooking. The goal is to keep the integrity of each ingredient, especially the beans, which should be tender yet intact after cooking. Once the mixture reaches a boil, reducing the heat to low and covering the pot is crucial; it traps steam which helps cook the rice evenly without scorching the bottom.

After simmering, taste the rice; it should be soft but not mushy, absorbing all the flavors. If the rice is still firm, add a tablespoon or two of water and cover to continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes. The Scotch bonnet pepper adds heat, but to control spiciness, piercing the pepper with a knife before adding it can help release flavor without overwhelming the dish. Be sure to remove it before serving unless you prefer a more fiery dish!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Jamaican Rice and Peas can indeed stand alone as a main dish, but it also pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fried fish, or a hearty vegetable curry. To elevate the presentation, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or additional chopped green onions. For a more colorful twist, including diced red bell peppers could enhance both the visual appeal and add a hint of sweetness, complementing the spices used in the dish.

For meal prep, this dish stores wonderfully in the fridge for up to one week. To freeze, allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container, where it can last for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of coconut milk or water to prevent dryness and microwave or heat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create an authentic Jamaican experience:

Ingredients

1 cup white rice
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup coconut milk
1 1/2 cups water
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
Salt, to taste

Mix everything together for a delicious one-pot wonder!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your dish:

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the rice and drain the red kidney beans. Chop the green onions and mince the garlic.

Combine Ingredients

In a large pot, add the rice, beans, coconut milk, water, green onions, garlic, thyme, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using).

Cooking

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

Serve

Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper if used. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.

Enjoy your Jamaican Rice and Peas alongside your favorite protein!

Pro Tips

Use basmati or jasmine rice for an extra aromatic flavor. Remember to check on the rice as it cooks to prevent burning at the bottom of the pot.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with rice dishes is the dreaded mushiness. This often happens when too much water is added or if the rice is overcooked. To salvage overcooked rice, place it on a baking sheet and spread it out—this allows moisture to evaporate. If you find your rice is undercooked, simply add a little more water and return it to low heat until it softens.

Another concern is unevenly cooked rice. This can occur if the rice-to-liquid ratio is off or if the heat isn’t consistent. When you adjust the heat after boiling, ensure it's sufficiently low to maintain a gentle simmer. If cooking in a pot, consider using a heavy-bottomed one to distribute heat evenly.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up or down is quite simple, just remember to maintain the rice to liquid ratio, keeping it at 1:2. So, for two cups of rice, use four cups of liquid. When scaling up, ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased ingredients without overcrowding, which can prolong cooking time and lead to uneven results.

For smaller servings, cook just half of the original recipe. It's an opportunity to experiment with the flavors; try adding different herbs like rosemary or basil in place of thyme to see how they change the dish's profile while keeping its essence.

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 substitute for coconut milk?

Almond milk or vegetable broth can be used, but it will alter the flavor profile.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more Scotch bonnet peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to taste.