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: 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen); 1 tablespoon Jamaican curry powder; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Recipes

I love making Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice because it brings vibrant flavors and nourishment to our table. The mix of spices, vegetables, and fluffy rice creates a dish that’s both satisfying and colorful. Every bite transports me to a Caribbean paradise, and I can customize it with whatever vegetables I have on hand. It’s a perfect side or a hearty main dish that everyone in my family enjoys. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare, making it a staple in our weekly meal rotation.

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:21:35.193Z

When I first attempted this dish, I was amazed at how the spices meld together to create an aromatic sensation. I used a mix of bell peppers, carrots, and peas, which provided color and texture. The key is not to rush the sautéing process; allowing the vegetables to soften slightly before adding the rice brings out their natural sweetness.

As I experimented, I discovered that adding a splash of coconut milk just before serving enhanced the overall creaminess and depth of flavor. It’s a simple addition that makes a profound difference, turning a good meal into a memorable one!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic blend of spices that tantalizes the taste buds
Versatile ingredients to suit your preferences
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

Ingredient Insights

The backbone of Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice is the aromatic blend of spices, particularly Jamaican curry powder and allspice. The curry powder imparts a warm, earthy flavor that enhances the wild tropical notes typical of Jamaican cuisine. If you're in a pinch, substitute curry with a combination of turmeric and cumin; however, the unique flavor profile of Jamaican curry truly elevates this dish.

Using fresh vegetables not only boosts the dish's nutrition but also adds varying textures that complement the fluffy rice. Bell peppers bring sweetness, while carrots add crunch. If you're missing any of the suggested vegetables, feel free to swap in zucchini, corn, or even leafy greens like spinach. Just remember to adjust cooking times to ensure everything remains tender yet vibrant.

Cooking Techniques

Properly rinsing the rice is crucial as it removes excess starch that can make the final dish overly sticky. Aim for the water to run clear before cooking. When combining the rice with broth, ensure that you bring it to a full boil before reducing the heat. This method helps create steam, effectively cooking the rice evenly and allowing it to fluff up beautifully.

When sautéing the onions and garlic, aim for a translucent appearance—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The goal is to release their natural sweetness without browning them, which can lead to a bitter taste. Keep the heat at medium; if it seems too hot, lower it slightly to prevent burning while allowing the vegetables to develop their flavors fully.

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, diced
1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoon Jamaican curry powder
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Mix and match your vegetables based on what's in season to keep it fresh!

Instructions

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine rice and vegetable broth, and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent. Stir in the bell pepper and carrot, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until softened.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked rice to the vegetable mixture. Sprinkle in the Jamaican curry powder, allspice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors, and let it cook for another 5 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the peas and allow them to heat through. Serve the dish hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

Enjoy your Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice as a satisfying side or a main course!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins like beans or chicken to make this dish your own.

Make-Ahead Tips

Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice is a fantastic dish for meal prep. Cooked, it can last in the fridge for up to five days, making it easy to pair with other proteins or enjoy on its own. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to restore moisture and prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, this rice dish freezes well. Allow to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and freezing for up to three months. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little water if needed to revive its fluffiness.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant dish can be served as a standalone vegetarian meal or paired with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for added protein. I often serve it with a side of avocado or a dollop of sour cream on top; the creaminess balances the spice beautifully. For added heat, a sprinkle of scotch bonnet pepper can enhance the dish's Caribbean essence.

To elevate your plating, serve the rice in a large bowl and garnish with plenty of chopped green onions and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. This adds a zesty pop that brightens the entire dish and makes it visually appealing for gatherings or family dinners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, just note that you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

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

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Spiced Vegetable Rice?

This rice pairs well with grilled meats, curries, or even as a standalone dish with a side salad.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can cook it ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve. It also tastes great the next day!