Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas

Name: Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon drying thyme; 1/2 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Recipe Collection

I love making this Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas because it's a delightful blend of flavors and textures that transports me straight to the Caribbean. The combination of creamy coconut milk, tender beans, and fragrant spices creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly refreshing. Plus, it's an easy recipe to whip up for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. I can always count on it to be a crowd-pleaser and a comforting staple on my table.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:33:27.562Z

Making Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas is one of my favorite culinary activities. I love the vibrant colors and the aroma that fills my kitchen as the rice cooks in coconut milk. The key to this recipe is to use fresh thyme and scallions, which bring out the authentic Jamaican flavor. I've experimented with adding various spices to find the perfect balance, and I believe the hint of allspice truly elevates the dish.

Every time I serve this at gatherings, I watch as my friends smile with joy after their first bite. The red kidney beans add protein while the coconut milk contributes a rich creaminess that makes it a standout. It’s a simple, yet remarkable dish that captures the essence of Jamaican cuisine in an equitable and delicious way!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that enhances the dish.
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep.
Packed with plant-based protein from the beans.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a significant role in developing the unique flavor profile of Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas. The long-grain rice provides a fluffy texture that absorbs the rich coconut milk beautifully, creating a harmonious base. Red kidney beans add heartiness and a subtly sweet note, while also boosting the protein content of the dish, making it a healthy option for vegans and vegetarians.

Coconut milk is not just for creaminess; it also infuses the rice and beans with a delightful tropical flavor. When selecting coconut milk, look for full-fat versions for a richer taste; however, lite coconut milk can be substituted if you're looking for a lighter meal. The aromatic spices—thyme and allspice—bring depth and warmth, essential for achieving the authentic Jamaican experience.

Techniques for Success

Rinsing the rice is a crucial first step. It helps remove excess starch that can lead to a gummy texture. Wash the rice thoroughly under cold water until it runs clear; this should take about 1-2 minutes. This technique ensures each grain cooks separately and fluffy, giving the dish its characteristic texture.

Timing during cooking is key. Once you bring the mixture to a boil, be sure to cover the pot and lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cooking it too high can lead to uneven cooking and possibly burnt rice on the bottom. Stick to low heat and allow the rice to absorb the flavors over the designated 25 minutes, checking the doneness after 20 minutes for perfect results.

Serving and Variations

This dish pairs beautifully with various sides—try serving it alongside grilled vegetables or fried plantains for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley before serving adds a fresh brightness that balances the creamy coconut flavor.

For those looking to experiment, you can easily customize this recipe by adding chopped bell peppers or tomatoes for an extra color and flavor dimension. If you're a fan of spice, consider adding a bit of chopped Scotch bonnet pepper during cooking to infuse a subtle heat throughout, making it a true Jamaican feast.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon drying thyme
1/2 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have your ingredients ready, it's time to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas:

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Cook Aromatics

In a pot over medium heat, combine the chopped green onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the rinsed rice, kidney beans, coconut milk, vegetable broth, thyme, allspice, and season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Fluff and Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a few sprigs of fresh thyme during cooking and remove them before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas can be made in advance, making it a great option for meal prep. Prepare the dish up to the simmering stage, and once it’s cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up if necessary.

For longer storage, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring it is heated through completely.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice turns out too wet or mushy, it’s likely that it was overcooked or too much liquid was used. In the future, adjust the vegetable broth to ensure the right balance. Always follow the instructions carefully regarding the rice-to-liquid ratio for best results.

On the other hand, if the rice remains hard or undercooked, check that the cooking temperature is low enough to allow for proper absorption of the liquid. If you’ve lifted the lid too often during cooking, moisture escapes, which can also lead to undercooking. Reserve the lid for the majority of the cooking time to maintain a consistent temperature and steam.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time. Increase the vegetable broth accordingly.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

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

This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables, jerk tofu, or a fresh salad.