Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet

Name: Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups basmati rice; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 scotch bonnet pepper, halved (optional, for heat); 4 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet when I want a burst of flavor in my meals! It's vibrant, hearty, and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. The combination of spices and vegetables truly elevates the simple rice-to-vegetable ratio, transforming it into a delightful dish that everyone in my family enjoys. Plus, it's a one-pan wonder that means less cleanup for me, which is always a bonus after a long day.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:47:34.737Z

When I first tried Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet, I was stunned by how much flavor could come from just a handful of fresh ingredients. I learned that using a blend of spices like allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet really brings the dish to life. It not only warms your palate but creates a soothing and comforting meal.

Throughout the years, I've experimented with the vegetable mix based on the season, and I find that adding fresh bell peppers and carrots enhances the texture. Cooking everything in one skillet allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, and it's a gratifying experience when the kitchen fills with those rich, spicy aromas!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant flavors from herbs and spices that transport you to the Caribbean
Nutritious mix of colorful vegetables for a healthy meal
Quick and simple one-pan recipe that saves time on cleanup

      

Unlocking the Flavor

The rich blend of spices in this Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet truly sets it apart. Allspice, often referred to as 'pimento,' adds a warm, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bell peppers and the earthiness of the kidney beans. Toasting the spices could further enhance their aroma; just add them to the skillet for a minute before mixing in the rice. This small step can elevate the flavors significantly, making your dish even more enticing.

If you opt to include a scotch bonnet pepper for heat, remember that it can be very spicy! A half pepper is my go-to for a controlled kick, but feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance. If you're serving to guests, I suggest removing it before serving, as the heat can intensify while cooking. For a milder dish, substitute with a jalapeño or leave it out altogether, relying on black pepper for a gentler warmth.

Ingredient Insights

Basmati rice is ideal for this skillet due to its long grains and ability to absorb flavors without becoming mushy. If you find yourself out of basmati, jasmine rice can be a suitable alternative, though it may impart a slightly different fragrance. Remember that different rice varieties absorb water differently, so you might need to adjust the cooking time or liquid if using something other than basmati.

Using fresh corn kernels can add a sweet crunch to the dish. If you’re using frozen corn, ensure you thaw and drain it to prevent excess moisture from watering down the flavors. This aspect is crucial since you want your skillet to have a rich and concentrated flavor profile, not a diluted one.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a flavorful Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet.

Ingredients

2 cups basmati rice
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 scotch bonnet pepper, halved (optional, for heat)
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are prepped before starting the cooking process for a smooth experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and continue to cook for another minute.

Add Spices and Rice

Add the allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine, then add the basmati rice, mixing until the rice is coated with the mixture.

Cook with Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the skillet and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

Add Beans and Corn

Remove the lid, fold in the kidney beans and corn, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, let it cook uncovered for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, discard the scotch bonnet pepper, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy this vibrant dish as a main course or as a side with your favorite protein.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a squeeze of lime juice just before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet is excellent for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to revive the moisture and prevent the rice from drying out. Stir occasionally until the dish is heated through, ensuring each grain comes back to life.

If you wish to freeze leftovers, store them in an airtight container. It can last up to three months. For best results when reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it in a skillet. This method helps maintain the dish's flavor and texture, ensuring it tastes fresh upon serving.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your flavor profile by adding seasonal vegetables. For example, zucchini, carrots, or even diced sweet potatoes can bring an exciting twist to this dish. When adding root vegetables like sweet potatoes, cut them into small cubes, add them early in the cooking process, and allow them adequate time to soften while the rice cooks.

If you crave a protein boost, consider tossing in some sautéed tofu or tempeh towards the end of cooking. This method allows the protein to absorb the spices, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. You can also switch the kidney beans for black beans or chickpeas, which will also provide a unique texture while complementing the spices.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based, making it a great vegan option.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite veggies, such as zucchini or spinach.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool the rice skillet completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.