Jamaican Rice and Peas

Name: Jamaican Rice and Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups long-grain white rice; 1 cup red kidney beans, cooked; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 2 cups water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 sprig thyme; 1-2 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole, for flavor)

Highlighted under: World Inspiration

When I first tasted Jamaican Rice and Peas at a friend's family gathering, I was instantly transported to the vibrant streets of Jamaica. The combination of coconut milk, flavorful spices, and tender beans captivated my taste buds. This dish is more than just a side; it's a celebration of culture and taste. I love how quick and easy it is to prepare, making it a perfect addition to any meal or a comforting dish on its own. Let me show you how to make this delightful staple with simple ingredients and straightforward steps!

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:06:35.751Z

As I dove into perfecting this recipe, I discovered that the secret lies in using fresh herbs and spices. The thyme and scallions infused a wonderful aroma, while the coconut milk created a creamy texture that binds the dish beautifully. Each time I make this recipe, I adjust a bit according to my personal taste and often add a touch of lime juice for an extra zing.

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed solo, making it versatile. The textures of the rice and peas complement each other perfectly, and it's hard not to go back for seconds. It's always a crowd-pleaser, whether at dinner parties or casual family meals.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, coconut flavor infused with fresh herbs
Hearty texture from red kidney beans
Perfectly pairs with grilled meats for a complete meal

The Essential Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star ingredient in Jamaican Rice and Peas, contributing not only creaminess but also a rich depth of flavor. The type of coconut milk you choose can significantly impact your dish. For a more authentic taste, opt for full-fat coconut milk, which lends a velvety texture. Avoid light variants unless you're looking to cut calories; they simply won’t provide the same fulfilling mouthfeel. When adding the coconut milk, watch for the point where it just begins to simmer—it should appear glossy and slightly thickened before you introduce the rice.

Additionally, consider using fresh coconut milk if possible, especially if you're aiming for a true Jamaican experience. Fresh coconut milk has a brighter flavor profile compared to canned options. You can make your own by blending freshly grated coconut with water and straining it through a cheesecloth. This will give your Rice and Peas an elevated taste and richness that will impress your guests.

Heat Levels and Flavor Infusion

The Scotch bonnet pepper is an integral part of this dish, providing a unique heat that defines Jamaican cuisine. It’s crucial to add the pepper whole to prevent the dish from becoming overwhelmingly spicy; this allows for gradual flavor extraction. If you prefer a milder heat, consider puncturing the pepper with a knife before adding it to the pot. This will release more flavor while controlling the spiciness. As the rice cooks, it will absorb the pepper’s heat and fragrance, elevating the entire dish without overshadowing the other flavors.

Remember to remove the Scotch bonnet before fluffing the rice to ensure that the dominant heat stays manageable. If you're in a pinch and cannot find Scotch bonnet, habanero peppers can serve as a good substitute. However, be cautious with their heat levels and adjust to your preference.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Jamaican Rice and Peas pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, especially jerk chicken or pork, as the rich, creamy rice complements the spicy, smoky flavors. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini, drizzled with a coconut or lemon sauce for added flavor. Garnishing with fresh cilantro or additional green onions right before serving can enhance the dish visually and texturally.

If you have leftovers, they can easily be reheated in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to restore moisture. Another option is to incorporate the rice into a salad the next day, adding fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light lime vinaigrette for a delightful twist. This versatility ensures that this dish remains enjoyable even the next day.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make Jamaican Rice and Peas:

Ingredients

2 cups long-grain white rice
1 cup red kidney beans, cooked
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
2 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 sprig thyme
1-2 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole, for flavor)

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Jamaican Rice and Peas:

Rinse and Soak the Rice

Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, which helps keep the rice fluffy. Soaking the rice for 15 minutes is optional but can enhance the texture.

Combine Ingredients

In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, cooked red kidney beans, coconut milk, water, salt, black pepper, chopped green onions, minced garlic, and thyme. Make sure everything is well mixed.

Add the Scotch Bonnet

Add the whole Scotch bonnet pepper to the pot. This will impart its heat and flavor without overpowering the dish.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid.

Fluff and Serve

Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Afterward, remove the Scotch bonnet pepper and fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Your delicious Jamaican Rice and Peas is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider simmering the rice with a bay leaf or a piece of ginger. Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper used.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To enjoy Jamaican Rice and Peas over multiple meals, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it can last for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. When freezing, try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This dish also reheats well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep for busy weekdays.

If you plan to make it ahead of time, consider cooking the rice and beans, then letting them cool before combining with the coconut milk and seasonings just before serving. This ensures you maintain the lovely texture and flavor right before the meal. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning if it has been stored for a while as flavors might mellow during storage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with rice dishes is ending up with mushy or overcooked rice. To prevent this, make sure to maintain low heat while simmering, and avoid lifting the lid unnecessarily, which can release steam and affect the cooking time. The rice should be tender yet slightly fluffy, not sticky or mushy. If you notice it getting too soft, reduce your cooking time slightly in future attempts.

Another potential pitfall is uneven cooking, which can occur if the rice is not evenly distributed in the pot. Stir gently during the initial combination of ingredients to ensure even moisture absorption. If you find that not all the liquid was absorbed after the simmering period, let it sit covered off the heat for a few additional minutes to allow the excess liquid to evaporate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but the cooking time will increase, and you may need to adjust the water ratio.

→ Is it necessary to add the Scotch bonnet pepper?

It's not necessary, but it adds a distinctive flavor. You can leave it out if you prefer a milder dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze Jamaican Rice and Peas?

Yes, it freezes well in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.