Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice

Name: Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 can coconut milk; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Fusion Ideas

When I first tried Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice, I was blown away by how each bite was a burst of flavor. The combination of spices and fresh vegetables brought the dish to life, making it a colorful centerpiece for any table. I enjoy experimenting with rice dishes, and this one quickly became a family favorite. It’s not just easy to prepare, but it also packs a nutritional punch and is perfect as a side or a standalone meal. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of flavors with this recipe!

Created by

Etta Langton

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:33:34.646Z

After a trip to Jamaica, I couldn't stop thinking about the boldly spiced dishes I had enjoyed there. The aroma of coconut and spices filled the air, inspiring me to recreate that experience in my kitchen. I decided to combine fresh vegetables with rice, allowing the spices to shine through. The result was an aromatic and flavorful dish that transported me back to the Caribbean with every mouthful.

One detail I learned during my trials is to toast the spices lightly before adding them to the mix. This brings out their essential oils and enhances the flavor immensely! Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, this Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice has become a staple in our home.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that bring a taste of Jamaica to your kitchen
Colorful and vibrant veggie medley makes for a beautiful presentation
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Understanding the Flavors

Each spice in Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice contributes to a unique layer of flavor. For instance, allspice brings a warm, aromatic sweetness that pairs beautifully with the richness of coconut milk, while thyme offers a fresh herbal note that balances the dish. Don’t rush the toasting of these spices; doing so for just a couple of minutes intensifies their natural oils and aromatic qualities, enhancing the overall taste experience.

The inclusion of fresh vegetables not only adds color but also varies the texture. The crunch of bell peppers and the sweetness of carrots complement the creaminess of the coconut milk. If you want to add even more vegetables, consider zucchini or corn, which can be sautéed alongside the other veggies. Aim for a vibrant medley that pleases both the eyes and the palate.

Cooking Techniques to Elevate Your Dish

It's essential to rinse your rice thoroughly before cooking. This step removes excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains that don't clump together. When cooking, keep an eye on the rice; it should be tender yet not mushy. A gentle simmer is key; if your heat is too high, the coconut milk may boil over, creating a mess and affecting the rice's texture.

When combining the rice with vegetables, use a fork to fluff it up gently. This technique helps maintain the integrity of the rice grains without turning them mushy. It's also helpful to let the dish sit for a couple of minutes off the heat after combining everything. The carryover cooking will allow flavors to meld and will help avoid any hot spots in the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
1 can coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, diced
1 cup frozen peas
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to adjust the vegetables according to what you have on hand!

Instructions

Now, let’s get started with cooking:

Prepare the rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and cook until translucent. Then, add the diced bell pepper and carrot, sauté for 5-7 minutes.

Add spices

Stir in the allspice, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and allow the spices to toast slightly for about 2 minutes.

Combine everything

Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and add it to the skillet with the vegetables. Fold in the frozen peas and mix everything gently over low heat for another 5 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm. Enjoy the vibrant, flavorful dish!

Enjoy your Caribbean experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while sautéing the vegetables.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice makes an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare the rice and sauté the vegetables in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge; they will keep well for about 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk to regain creaminess and moisture.

If you want to prepare a batch to freeze, let it cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe bags. It can be stored for up to three months. When reheating from frozen, it's best to defrost in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it through in a skillet or microwave, ensuring that it heats evenly.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can stand alone or pair beautifully with meats or seafood. For a culinary adventure, try serving it alongside jerk chicken or grilled shrimp; the spicy notes will harmonize well with the flavors of the rice. Additionally, adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving brightens the entire dish, making it even more vibrant.

For a vegetarian twist, top the rice with roasted chickpeas or lentils for added protein. This way, you maintain a nutritional balance while enhancing the meal's heartiness. Feel free to finish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for an extra crunch, offering a delightful contrast to the soft textures of the rice and veggies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a great option for vegans.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include zucchini, corn, or broccoli based on your preference.

→ Can leftovers be stored in the fridge?

Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.