Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl

Name: Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl
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 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper, to taste; Juice of 1 lime; Chopped cilantro, for garnish; Sliced avocado, for serving

Highlighted under: World Collection

When I first discovered the flavors of the Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl, it felt like a culinary adventure right in my kitchen. I was captivated by how the spices and textures blended together, creating a vibrant dish that's both nutritious and satisfying. The combination of black beans, aromatic rice, and fresh herbs transports me straight to the Caribbean. I love how easy it is to prepare this bowl, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Let's dive into this delicious experience!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:29:35.070Z

My journey with the Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl began during a bustling summer when I craved something fresh and fulfilling. I experimented with different beans and spices, and the moment the black beans mingled with coconut milk and spices, a delightful aroma filled my kitchen. I realized that this dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors!

While creating this recipe, I learned that letting the beans simmer with the spices really enhances the flavor. One tip I found invaluable is to add a splash of lime juice just before serving—it lifts the dish and adds a bright finishing touch. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for a comforting meal
Packed with protein and fiber from black beans
Fresh ingredients bring a burst of flavor and color

      

Mastering the Perfect Rice

Cooking long-grain rice perfectly is crucial for this bowl's texture. The key is to use a 2:1 liquid-to-rice ratio, which keeps the rice fluffy without being sticky. Make sure to bring the broth to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to low and covering the pot. Keep an eye on it—it’s ready when the grains are tender but still have a slight bite.

After cooking, let the rice sit covered for about 5 minutes; this allows it to steam and ensures even fluffiness. If you find your rice is overcooked or mushy, consider adding a splash of broth or coconut milk and gently stirring to revive it without creating a paste.

Flavor Boosting with Fresh Ingredients

Fresh ingredients play a pivotal role in enhancing the flavors of the Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl. For instance, using freshly squeezed lime juice rather than bottled gives a vibrant acidity that brightens the whole dish. When choosing cilantro, select leaves that are fresh and bright green, avoiding any yellowing or wilting, which can impart a bitter taste.

If you're looking to elevate the experience further, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of jerk seasoning to the black bean mixture for an added kick of Caribbean flavor. Experiment with spices to adjust the heat level according to your preference; a little cayenne goes a long way!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl is a fantastic make-ahead meal. Store the rice and bean mixture separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. A splash of coconut milk can help restore moisture if the rice dries out.

For a delightful lunch option, pack the components separately and assemble during your lunch break. You can also experiment with toppings, such as crumbled feta cheese or diced mango, to introduce new flavors and textures each time you enjoy this dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup coconut milk
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Sliced avocado, for serving

With everything assembled, you're just a few steps away from enjoying this incredible dish.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl:

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the long-grain rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Black Beans

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine and Simmer

Add the black beans and coconut milk to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

Assemble the Bowl

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it among bowls. Top each bowl with the black bean mixture. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice, chopped cilantro, and slices of avocado.

Your Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl is ready to be enjoyed—dig in!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also make this dish vegan-friendly by skipping the avocado and using plant-based sour cream for topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can replace the coconut milk with unsweetened almond milk or a low-fat coconut milk alternative. While this will alter the creamy texture, it will still keep your dish light and flavorful. Additionally, if black beans aren't available, pinto or kidney beans can serve as great substitutes.

For a gluten-free option, double-check your vegetable broth labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free. This is particularly important if you are serving someone with dietary restrictions. Additionally, you can use quinoa instead of rice for a protein boost and a nuttier flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. To double the recipe, simply use two cups of rice and four cups of vegetable broth. Be sure to use a large enough pot to accommodate everything comfortably without overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.

When scaling up, keep an eye on cooking times, as larger quantities may need additional time to cook through properly. Always check the rice and beans' texture before serving to ensure they meet your desired doneness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian, and it's packed with nutrients.

→ How long does it take to prepare?

The total time is about 40 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as brown rice generally takes longer to cook.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to add toppings like salsa, shredded cheese, or even grilled chicken for extra flavor.