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 cup vegetable broth; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp allspice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Multinational Kitchen Ideas

I absolutely love Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas! It's one of those dishes that brings back memories of vibrant Caribbean flavors and is incredibly easy to prepare. The rich coconut milk combined with wholesome red beans and herbs creates a comforting, fulfilling meal that can stand alone or accompany your favorite plant-based protein. Plus, it’s bursting with flavor that will impress anyone at the table, vegan or not! Join me in uncovering this delightful recipe that’s sure to please your palate.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:45:28.153Z

When I first tried Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas in a small restaurant in Jamaica, I was hooked! The combination of tender rice, creamy coconut milk, and flavorful spices left a lasting impression that I've aimed to recreate ever since. I learned that the key to achieving the authentic flavor lies in the quality of the coconut milk and the fresh herbs used. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

Back home, I experimented with different beans and spices to customize the recipe, and my favorite version is a perfect balance of earthy flavors and a bit of spice. I've found that adding a pinch of allspice elevates the dish further, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore Caribbean cuisine!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for any meal
Rich coconut flavor that pairs perfectly with herbs
Simple, quick recipe for a weeknight dinner

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas lies in its ingredients, each playing a significant role in the dish’s signature flavor. The long-grain rice provides a fluffy texture, perfect for absorbing the creamy coconut milk. Red kidney beans enhance the dish's heartiness and contribute protein, making it ideal for a filling meal. Using canned beans saves time, but if you prefer, you can cook dried beans from scratch; just remember to soak them overnight and adjust cooking times accordingly.

Coconut milk is essential for imparting that rich, tropical flavor distinct to Jamaican cuisine. Choose full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture and robust flavor, while light coconut milk can be used for a lower-fat option. However, be mindful that using light coconut milk may result in a less creamy outcome. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, oat or almond milk can work, but the flavor profile will vary.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Rice

Achieving perfectly cooked rice is crucial when making Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas. After bringing the mixture to a boil, it's essential to lower the heat immediately to prevent burning. A gentle simmer allows the rice to cook evenly, absorbing all flavors from the coconut milk and spices. A common troubleshooting tip: if the rice appears too dry while cooking, add a splash of vegetable broth or water and cover it again to ensure it steams properly.

Once the cooking time is complete, letting the dish sit covered for an additional 5 minutes is key. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the rice to firm up slightly, making it easier to fluff with a fork. When fluffing, be gentle to avoid smashing the grains, as this helps maintain that light, airy texture that complements the creamy beans.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create this delicious dish:

Ingredients

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

Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Here's how to make Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas:

Prepare the Base

In a medium pot, combine the rice, drained red beans, coconut milk, vegetable broth, green onions, garlic, thyme, and allspice. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

Final Touches

Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Enjoy your meal with a side of your favorite vegan protein!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of lime juice before serving!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas dish can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. For best results, keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Upon reheating, simply add a splash of vegetable broth to restore moisture, as rice tends to dry out when stored.

If you're planning to enjoy leftovers later in the week, consider freezing portions. The rice and peas freeze well for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of liquid as needed to ensure it doesn't dry out.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While Vegan Jamaican Rice and Peas is delicious on its own, pairing it with a plant-based protein can elevate your meal. Serve it alongside grilled tofu, tempeh, or a hearty vegetable curry for a satisfying experience. You might also garnish your dish with fresh cilantro or sliced avocado for an added touch of color and flavor.

Feel free to customize the dish by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, or carrots during the cooking process. These not only enhance the nutritional profile but also add complexity to the flavors. For a spicier version, include a scotch bonnet pepper while cooking; just remember to remove it before serving to control the heat level according to your preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of bean?

Yes, you can substitute kidney beans with black beans or even chickpeas for a different taste.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients used are gluten-free.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated easily.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can add fresh chopped Scotch bonnet peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper to enhance the heat.