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: 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 ½ cups water; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 sprig fresh thyme; 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole); Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Authentic Kitchen

When I think of comfort food that transports me straight to the Caribbean, Jamaican Rice and Peas comes to mind. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen; it’s flavorful, colorful, and incredibly easy to make. The combination of coconut milk and spices creates a deliciously rich flavor that elevates the humble rice and beans into something extraordinary. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty main course, it never fails to impress whether I’m celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a cozy meal at home.

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:25:35.244Z

Growing up, my family often cooked Jamaican Rice and Peas during festive Sundays. The aroma of coconut milk mixed with spices filled the air, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. When I tried making it myself, I learned that the key to achieving that distinct flavor lies in using fresh ingredients and a good quality coconut milk. I often add a sprig of thyme and a Scotch bonnet pepper for a touch of authenticity and subtle heat.

One tip I’d like to share is to let the rice sit for a few minutes after cooking before fluffing it with a fork. This simple step helps to enhance the texture, ensuring that the rice remains fluffy and the peas are perfectly combined. I always find myself going back for seconds—and thirds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich coconut flavor paired with tender beans for a delightful contrast
Versatile dish that complements a variety of main courses
Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or a weeknight treat

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star ingredient in Jamaican Rice and Peas, lending its creamy texture and rich flavor to the dish. It brings not only moisture to the rice but also a slightly sweet taste that balances the savory beans and spices perfectly. When choosing coconut milk, look for full-fat varieties for the best consistency and flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, light coconut milk can be used, but it may result in a less creamy texture.

Incorporating coconut milk not only enhances the dish's richness but also provides essential nutrients, including healthy fats and vitamins. When mixed with the spices and beans, it creates a delightful sauce that clings to each grain of rice. As the dish cooks, the milk thickens slightly, so be sure to stir gently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Rice

Achieving perfectly cooked rice can sometimes be tricky, but there are a few key tips to ensure success with this recipe. One important step is to let the rice simmer on low heat after bringing it to a boil. This gentle cooking allows the grains to absorb the coconut milk and water evenly, resulting in tender rice that isn't mushy. Avoid lifting the lid while it simmers; steam escaping can lead to uneven cooking.

If you find that your rice seems undercooked after the suggested 30 minutes, don’t panic! Simply add an extra splash of water, cover the pot again, and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. Conversely, if the rice is overcooked and mushy, consider reducing the water slightly next time to maintain a firmer texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Jamaican Rice and Peas.

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 ½ cups water
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 sprig fresh thyme
1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole)
Salt to taste

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to cook the perfect Jamaican Rice and Peas.

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky.

Combine Ingredients

In a pot, combine the rinsed rice, kidney beans, coconut milk, water, green onions, garlic, thyme, and the whole Scotch bonnet pepper. Add salt to taste.

Cook the Rice

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

Finishing Touches

After cooking, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and discard the Scotch bonnet pepper before serving.

Serve hot and enjoy the flavors of Jamaica!

Pro Tips

For a variation, you can add diced bell peppers or carrots for added color and crunch. Adjust the heat by adding more or less of the Scotch bonnet pepper according to your taste preference.

Variations to Try

While the classic version of Jamaican Rice and Peas is delicious as it is, you can experiment with variations to suit your taste. For a vegetarian twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition. You could also introduce spices like cumin or curry powder to impart a different flavor profile that complements the coconut milk beautifully.

If you enjoy a bit of smokiness, feel free to mix in some cooked bacon or smoked sausage along with the other ingredients for a heartier dish. Just be mindful to adjust the salt content, as these meats can add their own seasoning.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Jamaican Rice and Peas is an excellent dish for batch cooking. You can prepare a larger quantity and refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for up to a month. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to restore moisture. Stir occasionally and heat until it’s warmed through, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

For best results, store the rice and peas in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor. When reheating, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, but the dish will still be a comforting meal any day of the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, you can substitute with black beans or pinto beans if you prefer.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can be enjoyed by anyone.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, it can be made ahead of time and reheats well. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.