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 basmati rice; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 cup green peas, fresh or frozen; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Fusion Collection

I absolutely love making Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice on festive occasions or when I want to add a burst of flavor to my weeknight dinners. The combination of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices transports me straight to the Caribbean, filling my kitchen with a delightful fragrance that makes everyone curious. I’ve experimented with different spice levels, and what truly stands out is the rich blend of allspice and thyme which enhances the earthy flavor of the rice. It’s a delicious side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a satisfying vegan main course.

Created by

Zinnia Fairweather

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:49:34.953Z

Every time I prepare Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice, I am reminded of my travels to Jamaica and the vibrant markets filled with fresh produce and spices. What I love about this dish is how easy it is to make, yet it delivers layers of flavors that surprise my taste buds. The use of coconut milk adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy vegetables.

One tip I've learned over the years is to let the rice sit with the lid on after cooking for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together fully and results in the perfect fluffy texture. Trust me, this little step elevates the dish from good to great!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors and bold flavors bring life to your plate.
Perfectly balanced spices that can be adjusted to your taste.
A wholesome and satisfying meal that’s vegan-friendly.

      

Flavorful and Aromatic Ingredients

The key to the deliciousness of Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice lies in its ingredients. Basmati rice is preferred for its long grains and ability to absorb flavors without becoming mushy. The addition of coconut milk provides creaminess and a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the spices. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and carrots not only add vibrant colors but also contribute to the dish's texture, giving it a satisfying crunch amidst the fluffy rice.

The spices used, particularly allspice and thyme, are quintessential in Jamaican cuisine. Allspice adds a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the earthiness of the dish while dried thyme lends a herbal note that complements the vegetables beautifully. If you're experimenting with your spice level, consider starting with half a teaspoon of allspice and adjust to your liking—it’s easier to add more than to fix a dish that’s become too spicy!

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Getting the rice just right is critical to the success of this dish. After sautéing the vegetables, be sure to thoroughly toast the basmati rice in the pan for about 2-3 minutes before adding the liquids. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice and prevents it from becoming overly sticky. Keep an eye on the pot; as soon as the liquid begins to boil, it's essential to cover it tightly and reduce the heat to avoid burning the bottom.

Simmering is where the magic happens. If you find that the rice is still al dente after the initial 20 minutes, simply add a few tablespoons of water and cover for an additional 5 minutes. Letting the rice sit covered off the heat for an extra 10 minutes allows it to steam and develop a light, fluffy texture. Always fluff the rice gently with a fork for that airy consistency—this helps prevent clumping.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to create this flavorful Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice.

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, diced
1 cup green peas, fresh or frozen
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Then, add the bell pepper and carrot, cooking for another 5 minutes until slightly tender.

Add Rice and Liquids

Stir in the basmati rice, allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.

Add the Peas

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, gently fold in the green peas to heat through. Remove from the heat and let it sit covered for another 10 minutes.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy this rice dish as a standalone meal or alongside your favorite protein!

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand for a personalized touch.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice can be a standout side or a filling main course. For a complete meal, pair it with grilled jerk chicken or shrimp to complement its flavors with a smoky, spicy kick. If you're serving it as a vegan main, consider adding some roasted chickpeas or black beans for an extra protein punch. A side of refreshing avocado salad or mango salsa can provide a lovely contrast to the spiced rice and round out the meal.

Leftovers can be repurposed in delightful ways. Try using the rice as a base for burrito bowls, adding beans, guacamole, and your favorite toppings. Alternatively, mix it into a frittata for a flavorful breakfast. The rice's versatility means it can easily adapt to whatever leftovers you have on hand!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're prepping in advance, Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice holds up well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or coconut milk, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. Microwave reheating works too; just be sure to cover the bowl to retain moisture and heat in short intervals.

For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Spread the cooled rice on a baking sheet to flash freeze in a single layer first. Once frozen, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. This method prevents clumps and allows for easy portioning. To thaw, simply leave it in the fridge overnight or microwave it directly from frozen with added liquid.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

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

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it keeps well in the refrigerator, and you can reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What proteins pair well with this rice?

Grilled chicken, fish, or tofu are all excellent choices to complement this dish.