Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice

Name: Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups long-grain rice; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 3 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Authentic Recipes

I absolutely love making Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice because it's vibrant, fragrant, and bursting with flavor. The combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a dish that's not just a side but a highlight on the dining table. I particularly appreciate the versatility of this recipe—it's perfect for family gatherings or as a delightful accompaniment to any meal. Plus, it's quick to prepare, allowing me to whip it up even on busy weekdays while still enjoying a taste of the Caribbean.

Created by

Quincy Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:29:35.024Z

When I first decided to try cooking Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice, I was pleasantly surprised by how the spices transformed simple rice into an exotic dish. I experimented with different vegetables, and found that bell peppers, carrots, and peas worked beautifully together, enhancing both the flavor and color. It's a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables too!

One of my favorite tips is to toast the spices before adding the rice. This step intensifies their flavor, making the dish aromatic and delicious. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly while the rice cooks!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A symphony of spices that transports you to the Caribbean
Colorful vegetables that make every bite visually appealing
A simple yet satisfying dish perfect for any occasion

      

The Role of Spices

In Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice, spices are the stars of the show. Ground cumin provides a warm, earthy flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the vegetables. Paprika adds a subtle smokiness, while allspice introduces a complex, aromatic quality that is signature to Caribbean cuisine. The cayenne pepper gives it a gentle kick, which you can adjust based on your heat preference. Understanding the role of each spice can help you tweak the dish to suit your palate; feel free to experiment with the quantities until you find the perfect balance.

To fully embrace the spice profile of this dish, consider toasting the spices briefly in the pot before adding the rice and broth. This technique elevates the aroma and flavor depth, enhancing your overall experience. Simply add the spices to the sautéed vegetables, stirring for about a minute until they become fragrant. You’ll know it’s time to proceed when the mixture starts to release a rich, enticing aroma, ensuring a flavorful foundation for your rice.

Vegetable Variations

While the recipe calls for bell pepper, carrot, and green peas, feel free to mix it up with vegetables that are in season or that you simply prefer. Zucchini, corn, or diced tomatoes can add extra sweetness and color. If you're aiming for a heartier version, consider adding cooked beans or lentils to the mix. Just remember that you should adjust the cooking time accordingly. If adding softer vegetables, incorporate them later in the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy.

When using frozen peas, there's no need to thaw them beforehand. They'll quickly cook through in the last few minutes of rice cooking, maintaining their vibrant green color and sweet flavor. This not only saves time but also minimizes prep effort, making this dish a truly quick and easy option for weeknight dinners.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient meal option. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The dish will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Reheating can be done in the microwave or on the stovetop, simply adding a splash of vegetable broth to keep it moist and prevent sticking.

For longer storage, consider freezing the rice. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It can be stored frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat directly on the stovetop, or use the microwave, adding a little broth as you heat to bring back its fluffy texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful meal!

Ingredients

2 cups long-grain rice
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, diced
1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
3 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix well and let the flavors marry!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to achieve a perfect dish.

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Add the bell pepper and carrot, and cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

Add Spices

Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, allspice, and cayenne pepper, allowing the spices to toast for about a minute.

Cook the Rice

Add the rinsed rice and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Finish the Dish

Add the green peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Fluff the rice with a fork, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Enjoy your vibrant Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what's in season or available in your pantry. You can also add beans for a protein boost!

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant rice dish can stand alone as a light vegetarian meal or serve as a delightful side alongside grilled jerk chicken or fish. The aromatic spices create a harmonious contrast to smoky grilled meats, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or parsley, which adds a refreshing brightness.

You can also transform this rice into a hearty salad by adding topped avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of lime juice. This not only enhances the flavor but also introduces a variety of textures—creamy, juicy, and crunchy—all in one dish. This variation is perfect for picnics or gatherings, providing a fresh option that complements the spices.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making rice is having it turn out gummy. This typically occurs when rice is not rinsed adequately prior to cooking. Ensure you rinse it under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch. Another factor is adding too much broth; following the 3 cups to 2 cups of rice ratio is crucial for perfect fluffiness.

If you find the rice undercooked and there's still liquid remaining, it may be because the heat was too low during simmering. In this case, simply increase the heat slightly, cover, and continue to cook until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid as brown rice generally takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan dish.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños while cooking.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice?

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