Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas

Name: Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Creations

I absolutely love this Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas recipe! It’s a comforting and tasty dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean right to my kitchen. Using simple ingredients like kidney beans, coconut milk, and spices, this dish turns into a satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with almost anything. The combination of creamy coconut and fragrant herbs is irresistible, making it a staple in my plant-based cooking. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, which is perfect for busy days but still feels special enough for any occasion.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:37:27.568Z

While developing this recipe, I experimented with various spices and found that a pinch of allspice really elevates the dish! The blend of coconut milk and fresh herbs creates a rich and inviting aroma that fills the kitchen. Plus, I loved how the kidney beans add a hearty texture that complements the fluffy rice perfectly.

One thing that really stood out to me was using fresh thyme instead of dried. It adds a brighter flavor that makes the dish feel more authentic. This simple switch made all the difference, and I can't imagine making it any other way!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy coconut flavor infused with fresh herbs
A hearty and filling dish that's satisfying on its own or as a side
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

Achieving the ideal texture for your rice is crucial in this Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas recipe. The rinsing step is essential, as it removes excess starch that can lead to overly sticky rice. After rinsing, I recommend letting the rice drain in a sieve for a few minutes. This allows for even cooking and helps achieve that fluffy texture we want. When simmering, keep the heat low enough to prevent the mixture from boiling over, but high enough to maintain a gentle simmer.

Another important technique is to let the rice rest after cooking. Once you remove it from heat, covering the pot for about 5 minutes allows the remaining steam to finish cooking the rice. This step gives you sumptuously fluffy grains and makes sure all the liquid is absorbed.

Ingredient Insights

The foundation of flavor in this dish lies in its ingredients. Kidney beans add not just protein, but also a hearty texture that complements the creamy coconut milk. When selecting kidney beans, I prefer using canned ones for convenience, but dried beans can also work if soaked and cooked properly beforehand. If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute with other beans like black beans or chickpeas, adjusting the cooking time accordingly, as they may require different treatment.

Coconut milk plays a pivotal role in creating that rich and creamy consistency. When selecting coconut milk, I recommend looking for a brand that uses fewer additives. Full-fat coconut milk will yield a creamier texture, while light coconut milk can be used for a lower-fat version. Just remember that light versions may result in a slightly less flavorful dish.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother process.

Ingredients

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

Make sure to adjust seasoning as per your taste preference!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for the best results.

Rinse the Rice

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

Combine Ingredients

In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, kidney beans, coconut milk, vegetable broth, green onions, garlic, allspice, and thyme. Stir thoroughly to mix the ingredients well.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Fluff and Serve

Once done, remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before uncovering. Fluff the rice with a fork, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Enjoy your flavorful Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add a splash of lime juice before serving. It adds a delightful zing to the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep it fresh, make sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you want to freeze the leftovers, it can be stored for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

When preparing this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the rice and beans separately. This allows for more versatility in serving. You can mix in fresh herbs or additional seasoning just before serving to enhance the flavor, giving it that fresh taste as if it were just made.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with many sides, making it fantastic for both casual and special occasions. I love serving it alongside grilled vegetables or a simple green salad to balance the creaminess of the rice. If you're looking for a heartier meal, it pairs beautifully with jerk tofu or tempeh for a spicy kick.

For a more festive touch, consider garnishing your rice with fresh cilantro or chopped parsley right before serving. Adding a squeeze of lime can also brighten up the flavors and add a delightful contrast to the richness of the coconut milk.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! You can add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten intolerance.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes! You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it. Just add a splash of water to loosen it up while reheating.