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) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 1/2 cups water; 2 scallions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Rice and Peas; it’s a dish that holds a special place in my heart. The combination of fluffy rice and tender beans cooked in coconut milk creates a wonderfully flavorful side dish that complements any meal. With the addition of scallions, thyme, and a hint of spice, I can’t help but smile each time I serve it up. This recipe is not only easy to make but also so satisfying, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners alike.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:52:07.946Z

Jamaican Rice and Peas is more than just a side dish; it's a celebration of flavors that I enjoy sharing with loved ones. I remember the first time I tasted it during a family gathering, and I was instantly drawn to its comforting aroma and vibrant colors. The secret to this recipe lies in the balance between spices and the creamy coconut milk that brings everything together.

When cooking it, I always soak the beans overnight to enhance their texture and flavor. This small tip really makes a difference in the consistency of the dish. I also recommend using fresh thyme and scallions for authentic taste. It’s incredible how these simple ingredients can turn into something so delightful!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fragrant coconut milk infused with fresh herbs
Perfectly tender rice and beans with a satisfying bite
A versatile dish that pairs well with any protein

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a star ingredient in Jamaican Rice and Peas, lending a rich creaminess and a subtle sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the beans and spices. When selecting coconut milk, opt for full-fat varieties to achieve the best texture and flavor. This choice ensures that your dish won’t be too watery, and will result in a luscious mouthfeel. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can dilute the coconut milk with a bit of extra water, but this may alter the overall richness of the dish.

Incorporating coconut milk also provides a depth of flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. During cooking, the coconut milk combines with the beans and rice, allowing them to absorb the creamy essence. I encourage you to taste the mixture as it simmers to gauge the balance of flavors. If it tastes overly rich, a pinch of salt can help to brighten and round out the dish.

Perfecting the Rice Texture

Achieving perfectly tender rice in this dish relies heavily on the right cooking method. It’s essential to bring the liquid to a rapid boil before adding the rice; this locks in moisture and initiates the cooking process effectively. Once the rice is added, do not stir it excessively—this can release too much starch and result in gummy rice. Instead, just give it a gentle stir to make sure it’s evenly distributed before covering the pot.

As the rice simmers for about 25 minutes, avoid lifting the lid unnecessarily. Trapped steam is crucial for proper cooking, and peeking can hinder that process. Once the time is up, let the pot sit covered for an additional 5 minutes off the heat. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking and allows any remaining moisture to be absorbed, resulting in fluffy grains.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Jamaican Rice and Peas:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup coconut milk
1 1/2 cups water
2 scallions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple instructions to make your Jamaican Rice and Peas:

Cook the Aromatics

In a large saucepan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped scallions and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the drained kidney beans, coconut milk, water, thyme, allspice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Add the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the rice. Stir well and return to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 25 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Serve and Enjoy

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. It pairs beautifully with jerk chicken or grilled fish.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while the rice cooks. Just remember to remove it before serving!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Jamaican Rice and Peas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It's a fantastic make-ahead dish, allowing the flavors to meld even further as it sits. If you find that the rice has dried out after refrigeration, simply add a splash of water when reheating to restore some moisture and heat it gently on the stovetop rather than the microwave.

If you’d like to prepare a larger batch for meal prep, this recipe scales up beautifully without altering any proportions. Just make sure to use a pot large enough to accommodate the increased volume and stir occasionally during the cooking to prevent any sticking at the bottom.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Rice and Peas isn't just a side dish; it's a versatile foundation for a hearty meal. Pair it with jerk chicken for a traditional flavor combination, or serve it alongside grilled fish for a light and satisfying dinner. The aromatic herbs and spices in this dish elevate the palate, ensuring that whatever protein you choose, it will shine alongside the rice.

Consider enhancing your serving experience by adding a fresh squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for brightness. You can even incorporate sautéed vegetables, like bell peppers or snap peas, for added color and nutrition. The possibilities are endless, and I love finding new ways to enjoy this classic dish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time to about 50 minutes, and may need to add more liquid.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Jamaican Rice and Peas is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Rice and Peas?

It pairs well with a variety of dishes, especially grilled meats, curries, or as part of a larger Caribbean feast.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! This recipe is inherently vegan, as it contains no animal products.