Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl

Name: Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup brown rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 avocado, sliced; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Juice of 1 lime

Highlighted under: Everyday Quick Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love creating vibrant and nutritious meals, and this Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl is one of my favorites. Packed with bold flavors from spices and a variety of fresh ingredients, it’s a dish I find both comforting and energizing. The best part is how easily it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a delicious meal prep option. Every bite is a delightful explosion of taste and texture that reminds me of the Caribbean sunshine I adore.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:20:37.005Z

When I first tried making this Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl, I wanted to capture all the incredible flavors of the island in one dish. By using aromatic spices like cumin and paprika alongside the beans and rice, I created a meal that is not only satisfying but also bursts with character. I remember thinking how perfect the combination of protein and fiber was, making each serving filling yet nutritious.

Another detail I found essential was using fresh cilantro and lime juice right before serving. This addition elevates the entire dish, brightening up the rich flavors and bringing a fresh contrast that I just can't resist. Over the years, I've experimented with adding different toppings, but I always come back to the classic avocado slices for that creamy texture.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich flavors of the Caribbean blended with healthy ingredients
Easy to adjust spice levels according to your taste
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers, if there are any!

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl is the combination of brown rice and black beans, both of which offer a hearty dose of fiber and protein. Brown rice is often preferred for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, providing a satisfying base. If you're looking to save time, you can use pre-cooked or frozen brown rice, which only needs to be warmed up in the skillet, cutting your cooking time significantly.

Black beans not only contribute a creamy texture but also absorb the spices beautifully, adding depth to the overall flavor profile. If you don't have black beans on hand, pinto beans or kidney beans can serve as excellent substitutes. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as different types of beans may vary in taste.

Sautéing for Optimal Flavor

When sautéing the onion and bell pepper, aim for a medium heat to allow the vegetables to soften without browning too quickly. This might take about 5-7 minutes. The goal is to achieve a glossy appearance, which indicates that they're ready for the garlic. Browning introduces bitter flavors, so keep an eye on them; if they start to color, reduce the heat.

Adding garlic just before mixing in the beans is crucial. Garlic cooks quickly and can burn in a hot skillet. By cooking it for just a minute until fragrant, you’re able to release its flavors without losing its aromatic qualities, which complement the earthy notes of cumin and paprika deeply.

Serving and Storage Tips

To assemble your bowls beautifully, consider layering: start with rice, add the bean mixture, then finish with avocado and a sprinkle of cilantro. This not only looks stunning but also pays off in terms of flavor integration; each bite combines different tastes and textures. A drizzle of lime juice brightens up the dish and enhances the Caribbean flavors, making every mouthful refreshing and vibrant.

If you have leftovers, store the components separately. The rice and bean mixture can be kept in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to the beans to maintain moisture. If you prefer a warm bowl, microwave each component until heated through before assembling again for the freshest taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare a delicious Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl!

Ingredients

1 cup brown rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 avocado, sliced
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Juice of 1 lime

These simple ingredients create a vibrant and delicious bowl full of Caribbean flavor!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl.

Cook the Brown Rice

In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the brown rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Vegetables

While the rice is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil, then sauté the onion and bell pepper until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Beans and Spices

To the skillet, add the black beans, cumin, and paprika. Stir well and heat through for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Bowl

Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork. Spoon the rice into bowls, top with the black bean mixture, and finish with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Serve your Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other toppings like diced tomatoes, corn, or your favorite salsa for a twist on this classic bowl.

Meal Prep Opportunities

This Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl is a fantastic meal prep option due to its versatility and storage capabilities. You can prepare a large batch of brown rice and the black bean mixture at the beginning of the week. Store them in individual containers to grab and go, ensuring a nutritious lunch or dinner is always at your fingertips.

Moreover, toppings like avocado and cilantro can be added fresh just before serving. This not only enhances the texture but ensures them to retain optimal freshness. Also, consider cooking the rice and bean mixture in double batches and freezing portions, which can then be defrosted overnight in the refrigerator for an easy weeknight dinner.

Spice Adjustments

One of the delightful aspects of this recipe is its adaptability in terms of spice levels. If you like heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper while sautéeing the vegetables. Alternatively, using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika adds a smoky undertone that enhances the dish’s complexity without overpowering the other flavors.

Conversely, if you are cooking for kids or those who prefer milder flavors, simply omit the spices altogether or reduce them during cooking. This way, you'll maintain the base flavor of the beans and rice, allowing the fresh ingredients like avocado and cilantro to shine.

Exploring Variations

Feel free to explore variations of this bowl by adding seasonal vegetables. For instance, roasted zucchini, corn, or diced tomatoes can provide additional flavor and color. These can be sautéed in the skillet after the onions and peppers, adding further dimensions of taste without overpowering the dish.

If you want to elevate this bowl to a more filling meal, consider topping it with a fried or poached egg. This not only adds protein but also a creamy texture as you break into the yolk, blending beautifully with the other ingredients. It's an easy way to turn this dish into a more substantial breakfast option too!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown?

Yes, you can, but keep in mind that the cooking time will be shorter, about 15-20 minutes.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and packed with nutrients.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the black bean mixture and rice in portions for easy meal prep!