Jamaican Spiced Rice with Vegetables

Name: Jamaican Spiced Rice with Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup frozen peas; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Heritage Collection

I love how vibrant and flavorful Jamaican Spiced Rice with Vegetables can be! Every time I make this dish, I’m whisked away to the sunny Caribbean, where the spices and colors come alive on my plate. The combination of aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and rice creates a beautiful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up whatever vegetables I have on hand. Let me share this recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Tilda Greenwood

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:45:34.955Z

Each time I prepare Jamaican Spiced Rice with Vegetables, I’m reminded of my travels to Jamaica. The blend of spices, especially the allspice and thyme, creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. While cooking, I like to toast the rice in the pot before adding the liquid, which enhances its nuttiness and gives the dish an extra dimension. This simple tip transforms the rice from ordinary to extraordinary.

Inviting friends over for dinner? This dish is not just colorful and tasty; it’s also incredibly versatile! You can customize the vegetable selection based on what’s in season or your personal favorites. Whether using zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans, each bite bursts with flavor, making this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a flavorful vegetarian option.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that transport you to the Caribbean
A colorful and nutritious dish packed with vegetables
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Choosing the Right Rice

For this recipe, I recommend using long-grain rice, as it provides the best texture and fluffiness. Jasmine or basmati rice works incredibly well, imparting a subtle fragrance that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Avoid short-grain rice varieties, as they can become mushy and sticky, detracting from the desired fluffy outcome. If you only have short-grain rice available, be prepared to adjust your cooking time and water ratio to achieve the right consistency.

Rinsing the rice before cooking is a crucial step. Give it a thorough rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This process removes excess starch, preventing clumping and ensuring that each grain remains distinct and fluffy during cooking. Doing this not only improves the texture but also enhances the visual appeal of your final dish.

Vegetable Variations and Additions

One of the joys of Jamaican Spiced Rice is its versatility with vegetables. While this recipe calls for bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and peas, feel free to get creative! Spinach, corn, or even diced sweet potatoes can add both color and nutrition. If you're using hard vegetables like sweet potatoes, be sure to precook them slightly before adding to the pot, as they take longer to become tender.

Incorporating seasonal vegetables is another fantastic way to personalize this dish. For instance, in the summer, you can add fresh corn off the cob or diced tomatoes for a burst of juiciness. Experimenting with different vegetable combinations not only keeps the recipe fresh but also allows you to showcase what you have on hand, ensuring maximum flavor and less waste.

Make-Ahead and Leftover Tips

Jamaican Spiced Rice with Vegetables is a wonderful make-ahead meal. After cooking, allow the rice to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be kept for 4-5 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and microwave or warm on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method helps to prevent the rice from drying out.

If you want to freeze leftovers, portion the rice into freezer-safe bags, preferably flattening the bags for easier storage. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as mentioned above. This way, you’ll have a quick and nutritious meal ready to go on busy days!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your flavorful Jamaican Spiced Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup frozen peas
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have everything measured and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Jamaican Spiced Rice:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.

Add Seasonings

Stir in the diced bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini, and cook for another 5 minutes. Add allspice, thyme, and salt to the pot, stirring well.

Toast the Rice

Add the rice to the vegetable mixture, stirring to coat the grains in the spices. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.

Cook the Rice

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.

Add Peas and Serve

Stir in the frozen peas and allow them to heat through for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Spiced Rice as a delightful side dish or a standalone meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This dish also pairs well with grilled meats, providing a fantastic flavor contrast.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor of your Jamaican Spiced Rice, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice right before serving. The acidity from the lime brightens the dish and complements the spices beautifully. Additionally, a sprinkle of scallions or sliced green onions can add a fresh crunch and an extra layer of aroma.

For those who love a bit of heat, diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper can be mixed in with the vegetables. Just be careful with the quantities, as the goal is to enhance without overpowering the aromatic spices like allspice and thyme that define this dish.

Serving Suggestions

This spiced rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as jerk chicken or fish, making it an ideal side dish for your next barbecue or family dinner. For a lighter option, serve it as a bed for sautéed shrimp or tofu, allowing the flavors to mesh beautifully.

You can also transform this dish into a one-pot meal by adding protein. Chickpeas or black beans work well for a vegetarian option, while cooked shrimp or diced chicken breast can easily complement the existing flavors. Just add them towards the end of cooking to ensure they warm through without overcooking.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your rice turns out sticky or mushy, it might be due to using too much water or not rinsing the rice beforehand. Stick to the measured broth and be sure to rinse for a fluffy texture. If you've already cooked it, try spreading it on a baking sheet to cool; this can help reduce the moisture.

On the other hand, if your rice seems undercooked after the allotted time, do not panic! Simply add a little more broth or water, cover, and continue to simmer on low heat. This allows the rice to absorb the moisture and cook through, giving you that desired fluffy finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but be aware that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and additional liquid. Check the package instructions for adjustments.

→ What vegetables can I substitute?

You can use any vegetables you like! Try using corn, green beans, or even spinach for a different twist.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

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

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes! This rice dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated easily for a quick meal.