Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl

Name: Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup brown rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Classic World Food Collection

I love whipping up a Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl when I need a quick, wholesome meal that bursts with flavor. The combination of seasoned black beans, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies creates a satisfying dish that's both nutritious and comforting. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it's so easy to prepare, and I enjoy experimenting with different spices and toppings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover ingredients in my fridge!

Created by

Rosamund Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:05:35.684Z

During one of my culinary adventures, I decided to explore Caribbean flavors and stumbled upon the vibrant world of Jamaican cuisine. The combination of black beans and rice is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for any meal. One tip I discovered is to let the black beans marinate in spices before cooking, which amplifies their flavor significantly.

What I truly appreciate about this dish is its versatility. Whether I need a quick weeknight meal or plan to impress guests, the Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl adapts beautifully. I love serving it with fresh avocado and a sprinkle of lime juice for an extra zing!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling with every bite
A burst of Caribbean flavors and colors
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

      

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

Getting the rice just right sets the stage for this dish. When cooking brown rice, it's essential to use a sufficient liquid ratio—in this case, a 2:1 ratio of vegetable broth to rice. As soon as the broth reaches a boil, stirring briefly before covering is important to distribute the heat evenly. If you find that your rice often turns out too firm or undercooked, try increasing the simmering time by a few minutes, or adding a splash more broth to ensure it steams to perfection.

Once the rice is done cooking, let it rest covered for an additional five minutes off the heat. This resting period allows excess moisture to evaporate, resulting in a fluffier texture. Use a fork to fluff it gently, ensuring each grain remains separated, which is crucial for creating a pleasant mouthfeel in the finished bowl.

Customizing Your Black Bean Mixture

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. While black beans are a fantastic base, feel free to mix in extra vegetables to enhance flavor and nutrition. Chopped zucchini, corn, or even diced carrots can easily be sautéed alongside the onions and peppers. This not only adds color to your dish but also contributes additional textures that make each bite interesting.

For those who prefer a bit of heat, incorporating chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile. Alternatively, for a more mellow option, consider adding a pinch of brown sugar to balance the spices if you find the dish too savory. Remember to taste along the way; adjusting seasonings as you go ensures the final product hits just the right spot.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start your cooking adventure!

Ingredients

1 cup brown rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious bowl.

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the brown rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Beans and Season

Add the rinsed black beans to the skillet with the vegetables, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

Serve and Garnish

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and divide it into bowls. Top with the black bean mixture, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your flavorful Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

For additional creaminess, consider adding sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream on top.

Meal Prep and Storage

This Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl is an excellent option for meal prep. You can cook a large batch of rice and beans at once, dividing them into individual portions to grab throughout the week. When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the components can last for up to five days. Just reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep the rice from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the individual components: both the black bean mixture and rice freeze well. Spread them out on a baking sheet briefly to cool, then transfer to freezer bags. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, just defrost in the refrigerator overnight or reheat directly from frozen, adding a little broth to ensure they remain moist.

Serving Suggestions

This bowl is not just a filling meal on its own; it also serves as a fantastic base for additional toppings. Consider adding sliced avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for a creamy finish. A few slices of fresh cucumber or radishes could bring a refreshing crunch to the dish, enhancing the overall texture and flavor.

For a burst of brightness, a drizzle of tahini or a homemade vinaigrette could be fantastic. Additionally, pairing the bowl with a simple side of plantain chips or a small green salad can create a more substantial meal, perfectly capturing the essence of Caribbean cuisine in a balanced format.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter; about 15-20 minutes.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add diced tomatoes, corn, or shredded cheese based on your preference.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.