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Jamaican Rice and Peas

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This Jamaican Rice and Peas recipe is a traditional Caribbean side dish made with long-grain rice, kidney beans, and coconut milk, all infused with aromatic spices like thyme, allspice, and scotch bonnet pepper. This easy and flavorful dish pairs perfectly with jerk chicken, or any Caribbean meal. With its creamy texture and balanced heat, Jamaican Rice and Peas brings the taste of the islands to your kitchen in no time.
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings

Ingredients

1 clove garlic, crushed

1 tablespoon butter

1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1 teaspoon thyme

1 teaspoon allspice

½ teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained

1 can (15 ounces) dark kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (14 ounces) unsweetened coconut milk

¾ cup water

1 scotch bonnet or habanero pepper

Instructions

  • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  • Add the onion powder, thyme, allspice, ground ginger, and salt. Stir to combine the spices with the garlic and butter.

  • Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat it with the spices and butter mixture. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes.

  • Pour in the coconut milk, water, and kidney beans. Stir well.

  • Make a small slit in the scotch bonnet or habanero pepper and add it to the pot.

  • Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

  • Remove the pepper before serving, fluff the rice, and serve warm.

Notes

Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder dish, remove the scotch bonnet pepper after 10 minutes of cooking.

Use fresh beans: For a more authentic version, you can use dried kidney beans. Just be sure to cook them beforehand and adjust the liquid accordingly.

Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or coconut milk to prevent the rice from drying out.

  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Jamaican, Caribbean
  • Diet: Vegetarian