Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice

Name: Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups jasmine rice; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh scallions for garnish

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We absolutely love cooking Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice at home! It's a vibrant, aromatic dish that truly embodies the flavors of Jamaica. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a colorful side for any gathering. The combination of spices and fresh vegetables not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings a burst of color to the plate. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that's both satisfying and full of character. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a family favorite!

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:13:34.780Z

Cooking this Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice transports me to a sun-soaked Caribbean island. I still remember the first time I made it; the house filled with the delicious aroma of spices like thyme, allspice, and scallions. It’s a wonderfully fragrant dish that always impresses guests. I suggest playing around with the spice levels to suit your taste!

To make this dish truly sing, I recommend using a mix of fresh vegetables. Bell peppers and peas not only add color but also enhance the flavors beautifully. Next time, don't hesitate to try adding some black beans for extra protein and earthiness!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A flavorful blend of spices that creates a vibrant dish
Easy to adapt with your favorite veggies
Perfect as a side or a hearty main dish

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish is jasmine rice, known for its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture that makes it perfect for absorbing flavors. When rinsing the rice, aim to wash it until the water is completely clear; this crucial step helps to reduce excess starch that can lead to gummy rice. If you find yourself without jasmine rice, you can substitute it with basmati rice, but remember that cooking times may slightly differ due to the grain's structure and absorption rate.

Coconut oil plays a vital role in providing a rich, tropical flavor that complements the spices beautifully. If you prefer a different oil or are looking for a dairy-free option, avocado or olive oil can work, though they will introduce different flavor profiles. Additionally, the spices—especially allspice—are what infuse this dish with that characteristic Jamaican charm. Make sure to use fresh spices when possible, as they deliver the best flavor.

Cooking Techniques for Best Results

Sautéing the vegetables carefully is essential to building flavor in this dish. Make sure to cook the onions until they are translucent and fragrant, usually about 5 minutes. This step is often overlooked but helps develop a sweet, rich foundation for your rice. When adding the bell pepper, don't rush it; allowing it to soften slightly ensures it mingles well with the other ingredients without becoming mushy.

When adding the vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a vigorous boil; this initial heat helps the rice start cooking evenly. After reducing to a simmer, check your rice during the cooking time—too much moisture can lead to soggy rice. If the pot seems dry before the rice is fully cooked, you can add a little more broth or water, about 1/4 cup at a time.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:

Ingredients

2 cups jasmine rice
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh scallions for garnish

Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

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

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch for fluffier rice.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. Stir in the diced bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Add the Rice and Spices

Add the rinsed rice, allspice, thyme, and ginger to the pan, stirring to coat the rice with the oil and spices.

Pour in the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cover the pan. Cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Add Peas and Season

In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas, allowing them to heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh scallions before serving. Enjoy!

Enjoy your authentic Jamaican dish!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, feel free to include chopped Scotch bonnet pepper during the sautéing process. Adjust the number of peas based on personal preference for an even colorful dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice is an excellent dish to make ahead of time. If storing, let the rice cool completely before placing it in an airtight container; it can be refrigerated for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore moisture, ensuring the rice remains fluffy and inviting. This method can help enhance the flavors as they meld over time.

If you want to scale this recipe for a larger gathering, simply double the ingredients while maintaining the same ratios. Just be aware that the cooking time might increase slightly. Monitor the rice closely, especially towards the end of the cooking time, as larger quantities may take longer to absorb liquid evenly.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant rice dish can stand alone as a satisfying vegetarian main or pair beautifully with grilled jerk chicken or fish for a fuller meal. For an extra kick, consider serving it alongside a spicy mango salsa, which can complement the warm spices found in the rice. This combination not only adds a delightful contrast of flavors but also enhances the overall presentation.

For those looking to add more nutritional value, consider incorporating additional vegetables such as zucchini or sweet corn; just sauté them with the bell peppers for added texture and sweetness. Alternatively, you can fold in some cooked black beans or chickpeas during the final stir to enhance protein content, making the dish even heartier.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but be aware that brown rice will require a longer cooking time, typically around 40-45 minutes. Adjust the liquid accordingly.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice is entirely vegan and can be paired with many plant-based proteins.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.

→ What can I serve with this rice?

This rice pairs wonderfully with fried plantains, jerk chicken, or a fresh salad for a full meal experience.