Jamaican Spiced Rice with Vegetables

Name: Jamaican Spiced Rice with Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 1/2 cup frozen peas; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Fusion Ideas

I love making Jamaican Spiced Rice with Vegetables because it bursts with flavor and color! The blend of spices and fresh veggies creates a deliciously fragrant dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a complement to any meal. Each bite transports me to the vibrant shores of Jamaica, where this dish originates. The simplicity of preparation and the delightful aroma filling my kitchen make this one of my favorite go-to recipes for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:45:34.266Z

Preparing Jamaican Spiced Rice with Vegetables has become a cherished tradition in my home. I experimented with various spice combinations, finally settling on a mix of allspice, thyme, and a hint of scotch bonnet pepper for that authentic touch. The vegetables I choose depend on what’s in season, which adds a fresh twist each time I make it.

One significant tip I learned is to let the rice rest for a few minutes after cooking. This step helps it to fluff up nicely and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. I've found that the presentation improves dramatically when I serve it garnished with fresh herbs, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that transport your taste buds to Jamaica
Colorful and nutritious, packed with fresh vegetables
Easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings

      

Unlocking Flavor with Spices

When crafting Jamaican Spiced Rice, the choice of spices is fundamental to achieving authentic flavor. The combination of allspice and dried thyme creates a warm, earthy base, while the scotch bonnet adds a unique heat that is characteristic of Jamaican cuisine. If you find scotch bonnet peppers hard to come by, you can substitute with a milder chili or even a pinch of cayenne if you prefer less heat but still want depth in flavor.

It’s crucial to let the spices bloom in the oil before adding the other ingredients. Sautéing them for a couple of minutes allows the oils to release, intensifying their aromas and permeating the veggies. You'll know it's ready when the kitchen is filled with a fragrant, almost sweet scent. This technique sets the stage for a beautifully flavored rice dish.

Preparing the Rice Perfectly

Rinsing the basmati rice is an essential step that should not be overlooked. This process washes away the excess starch, resulting in perfectly fluffy grains. When you finish rinsing, the rice should feel slightly slippery but not coated with a thick starch layer. If you skip this step, the rice may end up sticky and clump together during cooking.

After combining the rice with the vegetable mix, make sure to stir gently to avoid breaking the grains. When adding the broth, bring it to a boil and then immediately lower the heat—keeping it at a low simmer is key to allowing the rice to hydrate evenly. Covering the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid traps steam, ensuring your rice cooks through without losing moisture.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the best aspects of this Jamaican Spiced Rice is its versatility. Feel free to add or swap in seasonal vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, corn, or even diced sweet potatoes can add delightful textures and flavors. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly for any harder vegetables, as they might need a few extra minutes to soften.

If you want to turn this side dish into a main course, consider adding protein such as black beans or chickpeas. They not only elevate the dish nutritionally but also contribute to a more filling meal. Simply stir them in during the last five minutes of cooking, allowing them to warm through and blend their flavors with the rice.

Ingredients

For Jamaican Spiced Rice with Vegetables

1 cup basmati rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, diced
1/2 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Steps

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy during cooking.

Cook the Vegetables

In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, bell pepper, and carrot; cook for another 5 minutes.

Add Spices

Sprinkle in the allspice, dried thyme, and minced scotch bonnet pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their aroma.

Combine Rice and Broth

Pour the rinsed rice into the saucepan and stir well to coat with the vegetable mixture. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

Add Peas

After 20 minutes, add the frozen peas to the rice. Fluff the rice with a fork, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or a standalone meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper based on your spice tolerance. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or corn depending on your preference.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a gathering, this Jamaican Spiced Rice with Vegetables can be prepared in advance. Allow the cooked rice to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it gently in a saucepan with a splash of vegetable broth to restore moisture and fluff up the grains.

Freezing this dish is also an option if you want to prep meals ahead of time. Portion the rice into freezer bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to help steam it back to perfection.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, serve the Jamaican Spiced Rice in a wide bowl, garnished generously with chopped fresh cilantro. This not only enhances the dish’s vibrant colors but also adds a fresh note that complements the spices beautifully. Pair it with grilled jerk chicken, fish, or a hearty salad for a well-rounded meal that highlights the rice's flavorful base.

If you're looking to scale the recipe up for larger gatherings, this rice dish works wonderfully in big batches. Just maintain the same ratios of rice to broth and vegetables. Consider preparing a double batch and serving it as a buffet-style side. Its bright colors and inviting aroma will surely attract guests to the table!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid as brown rice typically requires more time to cook.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, and it reheats well. Just add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it moist.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, all ingredients used are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan dish!

→ What can I serve with this rice?

It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or can be enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian dish.