Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans

Name: Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked black beans (canned or dried); 1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Heritage Collection

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans because they're rich in flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of coconut milk and warm spices creates a wonderful aroma in the kitchen that brings everyone together. It's a dish that not only highlights the beauty of black beans but also celebrates the vibrant flavors of Jamaica. Whether served on its own or as a side dish, these beans are sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it'll become a staple in your home!

Created by

Tilda Greenwood

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:25:35.352Z

When I first discovered Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans, I was instantly captivated by the combination of spices and creaminess from the coconut milk. I tried to replicate the flavors using different beans, but nothing compared to the depth provided by black beans. I learned that to achieve the right consistency and flavor, letting the beans simmer longer with the spices allowed them to absorb all that delicious goodness.

Additionally, I found that enhancing the dish with fresh herbs, like cilantro, at the end really elevated the flavor profile. It adds a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the coconut. Now, it's a go-to recipe for any gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture harmoniously blended with aromatic spices.
Nutritious black beans packed with plant-based protein.
Versatile dish that pairs perfectly with rice or grilled dishes.

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a key ingredient in this recipe, providing a rich and creamy texture that elevates the humble black beans. Its natural sweetness balances out the spices, creating a harmonious flavor profile. When selecting coconut milk, look for a brand that is free of additives and preservatives; full-fat coconut milk will yield the best consistency and richness for this dish, making it more satisfying.

As the coconut milk simmers with the beans, it thickens slightly, coating each bean and infusing them with warmth and comfort. Aim for a gentle bubble rather than a vigorous boil, which keeps the flavors intact while developing a silky sauce. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute half of the coconut milk with vegetable broth, but keep in mind this may alter the traditional flavor.

Spice It Up

The spices in this recipe are essential for capturing the essence of Jamaican cuisine. Each spice not only contributes to the flavor but also enhances the health benefits of the dish. Cumin provides an earthy, warm base, while coriander adds a citrusy brightness. When sautéing the spices, be sure to cook them until you can smell their fragrant aromas—about 1 minute is usually sufficient.

If you're sensitive to heat, adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste, or omit it altogether. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of allspice or thyme, both of which are often used in Caribbean cooking. This flexibility allows you to customize the flavor profile to suit your palate or experiment with different spice blends for unique variations.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

These Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans can be served in multiple ways. They are delightful over steamed rice, providing a nourishing meal enriched with plant-based protein. Alternatively, you can serve them alongside grilled meats or vegetables for a fulfilling dinner. For a more casual presentation, try them as a filling in tacos or burritos, topped with avocado and fresh salsa.

If you have leftovers, store the beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, gently simmer on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to restore the creamy texture. This makes for a quick and easy meal option when you're short on time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked black beans (canned or dried)
1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences!

Steps

Follow these simple steps to make your beans.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add dice onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.

Add Spices and Beans

Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper, allowing the spices to bloom for a minute. Next, add the black beans and coconut milk to the skillet.

Simmer and Season

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Once the beans are thick and flavorful, remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your meal!

This dish is delightful when served with rice or as a filling for tacos!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce before serving. You can also make this dish a day ahead to let the flavors meld even more in the fridge.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to substitute the black beans for another type, kidney beans or pinto beans work well in this recipe, maintaining the creamy texture and protein content. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if using dried beans, as they will take longer to soften compared to cooked or canned varieties.

Additionally, you can replace the onion with shallots or leeks for a milder flavor. If you're avoiding coconut milk entirely, try unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, but keep in mind that this may alter the dish's authenticity and depth of flavor.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your beans are too thick after cooking, simply add a bit of water or additional coconut milk to thin them out. Keep the mixture on low heat as you stir in the liquid to ensure it incorporates smoothly without diluting the flavors.

Should you find the beans overly salty, balance it out by adding a small amount of sugar or a splash of lime juice, which can help neutralize the saltiness while enhancing the overall flavor.

Make-Ahead Options

For meal prep enthusiasts, this recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the beans and store them in the fridge or freezer, allowing the flavors to meld while saving you time during the week.

Consider making a larger batch and portioning it out for individual meals. The beans can be reheated as needed, staying delicious and nourishing. Adding toppings like fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving can refresh them beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried black beans?

Yes, just make sure to soak and cook them properly before adding to the recipe.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses coconut milk and no animal products.

→ Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, you can increase the cayenne pepper amount or add diced jalapeños for additional heat.

→ What can I serve it with?

These beans pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or as a filling in tacos or burritos.