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: 2 cups of long-grain rice; 1 cup of dried kidney beans; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup of water; 2 scallions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I recently tried my hand at making Jamaican Rice and Peas, and I was immediately captivated by its vibrant colors and rich flavors. The combination of coconut milk, thyme, and kidney beans creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also a celebration of Caribbean cuisine. Each bite is a delightful experience, with the perfect balance of creaminess and aroma. I was thrilled with how easy it was to prepare, making this dish a fantastic option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:13:18.037Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Rice and Peas at a local restaurant, I was blown away by the depth of flavors. I knew I had to recreate it at home. The trick is using fresh ingredients like scallions and thyme, which elevate the dish immensely. Cooking the rice in coconut milk adds a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.

During my experimentation, I found it crucial to let the rice sit after cooking to absorb all the delicious flavors. Trust me; the waiting is worth it! Incorporating these small adjustments made a huge difference in achieving that authentic taste we love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich coconut flavor with a hint of thyme
Comforting texture that's perfect for any meal
A delightful twist on traditional rice dishes

      

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in Jamaican Rice and Peas contributes distinct flavors and textures, making the dish truly special. The dried kidney beans, when soaked properly, not only bring a hearty texture but also absorb the coconut milk and spices, enhancing their taste. Coconut milk adds a creamy richness, while fresh thyme imparts a fragrant herbal note that brightens the dish. The balance of allspice adds subtle warmth, making this rice dish a symphony of flavors.

Using long-grain rice is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. It ensures that each grain remains separate and fluffy rather than sticky. If you're short on time, you can use canned kidney beans instead of dried ones—just rinse and add them directly to the pot. However, using dried beans allows for better control over texture and flavor absorption, resulting in a more authentic experience.

Mastering the Cooking Process

Soaking the beans overnight is an essential step to ensure they cook evenly and thoroughly. If you're in a hurry, a quick soak can be done by boiling them for 2-3 minutes and then letting them sit for an hour. This method softens the beans sufficiently, but the overnight soak typically provides the best results. When cooking the beans, make sure to keep an eye on them; overcooking can lead to mushiness, which is best avoided for this dish.

When combining all the ingredients, you want to bring them to a gentle boil before reducing the heat. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully without boiling away the coconut milk. Make sure to cover the pot during simmering to keep moisture in; this helps achieve a tender rice and ensures that the flavors are absorbed fully. If you notice the rice is too dry midway through cooking, feel free to add a bit more water, a few tablespoons at a time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Jamaican Rice and Peas:

Ingredients

2 cups of long-grain rice
1 cup of dried kidney beans
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup of water
2 scallions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt to taste

Make sure to rinse the rice and soak the beans overnight for best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to cook your Jamaican Rice and Peas:

Soak the Beans

Start by soaking the kidney beans overnight in water to soften. Drain and rinse before cooking.

Cook the Beans

In a pot, add the soaked beans and cover them with fresh water. Boil for about 30 minutes until tender.

Combine Ingredients

Once the beans are cooked, add rice, coconut milk, water, scallions, garlic, thyme, allspice, and salt.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Rest and Serve

Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.

Pair with your favorite protein for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a Scotch bonnet pepper while cooking (remove before serving) for a slight kick.

Storage and Reheating

Jamaican Rice and Peas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To maintain the flavor and texture, it's best to cool the rice completely before storing. When reheating, add a splash of water to the pot to bring back moisture, covering it with a lid to steam. This will help prevent it from drying out and ensure that it’s warm all the way through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. It can be frozen for up to three months. Portion the rice into family-sized servings for easy reheating. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you'll have a delicious meal ready at your convenience.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of meats and vegetables. For a classic Caribbean meal, serve it alongside jerk chicken or grilled fish. The robust flavors complement the rice beautifully, creating a balanced plate. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, sautéed plantains or a vibrant salad can elevate the experience while keeping with the Caribbean theme.

For a twist, try using different beans like black beans or pinto beans, which can also bring their own unique flavors to the dish. Additionally, you might explore variations by adding diced bell peppers or carrots to the cooking pot for extra color and nutrition, making it a versatile dish for various dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but if you switch to brown rice, adjust the cooking time as it usually takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as all the ingredients are plant-based.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat when ready to serve.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well! Just ensure it is cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.