Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas

Name: Vegan 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) coconut milk; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh thyme; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 Scotch bonnet pepper

Highlighted under: International Recipe Collection

I absolutely love making Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas because it’s a classic dish filled with rich flavors and textures. The combination of coconut milk and fresh herbs creates a comforting and satisfying meal. Every time I prepare this dish, I find joy in the aromatic essence it brings to my kitchen. Plus, it’s not only delicious but also simple to make, perfect for any day of the week or for a special gathering with friends.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:28:52.775Z

When I first tried Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas, I knew it was going to become a staple in our home. The key to this dish is using fresh thyme and the right kind of rice, which helps absorb all that beautiful coconut flavor. It’s incredible how just a few simple ingredients can come together to create such a hearty meal.

One tip I’d love to share is to let the rice sit in the coconut broth a little longer than usual. This allows the grains to soak up the flavors deeply, making each bite richer. Plus, the vibrant colors and enticing aroma will surely impress anyone you serve it to!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flavorful coconut-infused rice with tender peas.
Simple to prepare with just a few key ingredients.
A dish that's both satisfying and nourishing.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas lies in its ingredients. Long-grain rice is preferred here because it cooks beautifully and remains fluffy. Using coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture that not only enhances the flavor but also provides healthy fats. The kidney beans contribute protein and fiber, making this dish both hearty and nourishing. For authentic Jamaican flair, the Scotch bonnet pepper adds a signature heat; however, if you prefer a milder dish, you can adjust the amount or use a bell pepper instead.

Herbs and seasonings are essential for flavoring this dish. Fresh thyme is a crucial ingredient, providing an aromatic component that complements the coconut flavor. Green onions and garlic add depth, while salt and black pepper balance the dish. Each ingredient plays a role in creating the comforting and satisfying experience that this rice and peas dish is known for.

Technique Tips for Perfect Rice

Rinsing the rice is a key step that helps achieve a perfectly fluffy texture. When you rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, it removes excess starch that can cause clumping. I've found that taking this extra five minutes makes a noticeable difference in end results. After rinsing, gently draining the rice is important; you want the grains to retain just enough moisture.

When simmering the rice, keeping an eye on the heat is important. Begin with medium heat to bring everything to a boil, then reduce to low once simmering. Cover the pot tightly and resist the urge to lift the lid; this keeps all the steam inside, which is essential for cooking the rice evenly. After about 30 minutes, check for doneness by ensuring the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender but not mushy.

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (15 oz) coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh thyme
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 Scotch bonnet pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents it from becoming gummy.

Cook the Rice

In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, vegetable broth, kidney beans, green onions, garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and add the Scotch bonnet pepper for flavor.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

Fluff and Serve

Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, let your rice rest covered for an extra 10 minutes off the heat before serving. This allows the dish to become even more aromatic.

Substitutions and Variations

While kidney beans are traditional, feel free to experiment with other beans like black beans or pinto beans if they’re what you have on hand. You could also try adding sweet bell peppers for a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, or even fresh spinach stirred in at the end for added nutrition. If you're looking for a grain alternative, quinoa can be used, but be sure to adjust the liquid amounts since quinoa absorbs water differently than rice.

For an added layer of flavor, consider infusing your vegetable broth with a bay leaf or smoked paprika while cooking. These small changes can enhance the overall taste profile, making the dish even more exciting and personalized to your palate.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish actually benefits from sitting, as the flavors continue to meld. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through and fluffy again.

For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. This makes Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas a perfect dish for meal prepping or quick weeknight dinners!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.

→ Is it possible to make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Just add more Scotch bonnet pepper or even some cayenne to increase the heat.

→ What can I serve with Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of sautéed vegetables or grilled plantains.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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