Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice

Name: Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 teaspoon allspice; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; 1 scotch bonnet pepper, whole; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Inspired Ideas

I love preparing Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice when I want a delicious and vibrant meal that brings a taste of the Caribbean to our dining table. This dish features fluffy rice infused with a bouquet of spices, complemented by colorful vegetables that not only enhance the flavor but also provide a lovely presentation. The method of toasting the spices before adding the rice makes all the difference, releasing their essential oils and creating an aromatic base that transforms a simple dish into an extraordinary experience. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a go-to recipe!

Created by

Unity Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:33:34.367Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice at a local Caribbean restaurant, I was instantly captivated by the rich flavors and vibrant colors on my plate. I wanted to recreate that experience at home, so I experimented with spices like allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper, which adds an exciting kick to the dish. Pairing it with seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers and carrots not only enhances the taste but also makes it visually appealing.

Through several iterations in the kitchen, I learned that the key to achieving a perfect texture lies in rinsing the rice before cooking. This step removes excess starch, resulting in light, fluffy grains that allow the spices and vegetables to shine. So, don’t skip that part! I’m excited for you to give this recipe a try.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that transport you to Jamaica
Vibrant colors and textures from fresh vegetables
Easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions

      

Ingredient Insights

The heart of Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice lies in its ingredient selection. The long-grain rice provides a fluffy texture, allowing each grain to remain separate, which is key for texture. Using a high-quality vegetable broth instead of water infuses the rice with rich flavor, making a significant difference in the overall taste. It’s essential to choose a broth without added sodium to control the saltiness of the dish and ensure the spices shine through.

In terms of vegetables, you can experiment with what’s available seasonally. While bell peppers and carrots add sweetness and color, consider adding peas, corn, or squash for extra texture and fiber. If scotch bonnet peppers are too spicy for your palate, you could substitute them with jalapeños for a milder heat or omit them altogether for a family-friendly version without compromising the recipe's essence.

Perfecting Your Technique

Toasting the allspice and thyme with the sautéed vegetables is a crucial step that helps develop the depth of flavor characteristic of Jamaican cuisine. When you toast spices, you release their essential oils, which enhances their aromatic qualities. Ensure you stir them quickly to avoid burning—this should take no more than a minute. You'll know it's done when your kitchen fills with a warm, fragrant aroma that signals it’s time to add the rice.

Rinsing the rice until the water runs clear might seem tedious, but this step is vital for achieving properly cooked rice free from excess starch. Not rinsing can result in clumpy rice. After cooking, remember to fluff the rice gently with a fork instead of stirring as you would with a spoon; this helps maintain the grains' integrity and prevents mushiness.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, diced
1 teaspoon allspice
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 scotch bonnet pepper, whole
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Mix all the ingredients before the cooking process begins to ensure everything is ready.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve fluffier rice.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, and carrot, cooking until tender.

Toast the Spices

Add allspice and thyme to the sautéed vegetables, stirring for about 1 minute to release their flavors.

Combine Rice and Broth

Add the rinsed rice to the skillet, mixing well. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the whole scotch bonnet pepper. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

Finish Up

Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork while removing the scotch bonnet pepper. Season with salt and pepper according to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Pro Tips

For a milder flavor, you can remove the scotch bonnet pepper after cooking for less heat. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a vegetarian option.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice is excellent for meal prep! You can make it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld even more. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect the texture.

If you have leftovers, reheating can be tricky since rice tends to dry out. To revive it, add a splash of vegetable broth or water in a skillet over low heat. This keeps the rice moist and fluffy, ensuring it’s as enjoyable as when you first made it.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant rice dish pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled jerk chicken or sautéed shrimp marinated in lime and cilantro. You can also keep it plant-based by adding chickpeas or black beans for richness and additional protein, transforming it into a one-pot dish.

For a festive touch, consider serving Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice on a bed of fresh greens. The contrast of the colorful rice against a backdrop of green adds visual appeal and freshness, making it perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

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

→ What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use water or chicken broth, but vegetable broth enhances the flavor.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan as it contains no animal products.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include any of your favorite vegetables, such as peas or corn.