Savory Jamaican Rice Bowl

Name: Savory Jamaican Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups water or vegetable broth; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh lime wedges for serving; Cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making this Savory Jamaican Rice Bowl for a quick, colorful meal that never fails to impress. The combination of fragrant rice, seasoned vegetables, and savory spices creates a delightful flavor profile that transports me straight to the Caribbean. Each spoonful is a burst of flavor, and the best part is how easy it is to customize the ingredients. Whether I'm adding black beans, jerk chicken, or fresh avocado, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this delicious dish.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:10:30.695Z

When I first tried making a Jamaican Rice Bowl, I was surprised at how simple yet flavorful it turned out. The key lies in using high-quality rice and spices. I prefer to use jasmine rice for its aromatic qualities, which pairs perfectly with the savory ingredients. It’s essential to let the rice simmer properly, absorbing all the flavors from the spices and vegetables, giving it that authentic taste.

One particular evening, I decided to experiment with adding different vegetables, and the result was fantastic! I mixed in bell peppers, corn, and black beans, creating a colorful and nutritious bowl. This dish has become a staple in my home, and I love how versatile it is—great for weeknights or entertaining friends!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and aromatic flavors that are reminiscent of the Caribbean
Customizable to include your favorite proteins and vegetables
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Flavors

The use of jasmine rice in this Savory Jamaican Rice Bowl is essential due to its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture when cooked. This rice beautifully absorbs the spices and flavors, enhancing the overall dish. Cooking it in vegetable broth instead of water can elevate the taste profile significantly, adding a depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Jerk seasoning is the star of this dish, providing a unique blend of spices that is warm, spicy, and slightly sweet. The combination of allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers in the jerk seasoning allows for a complex flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the corn and the creaminess of black beans. If you can’t find jerk seasoning, consider making a homemade version using ground spices available in your pantry.

Preparing Ahead and Storage

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the rice and sauté the vegetables ahead of time, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. This way, you only need to reheat them together when you're ready to serve. Simply combine them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

For longer storage, the rice and vegetable mixture can also be frozen. Divide the portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, and they will maintain their quality for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Jamaican Rice Bowl:

For the Rice Bowl

1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh lime wedges for serving
Cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Feel free to get creative with your choice of toppings and sides!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious Jamaican Rice Bowl:

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, combine jasmine rice and water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.

Stir in the garlic, jerk seasoning, black beans, and corn, cooking until heated through.

Combine and Serve

Once the rice is ready, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with lime wedges and optional cilantro.

Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Jamaican Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

You can easily swap out the vegetables according to what you have on hand. Try adding zucchini or spinach for a different twist!

Customization Options

One of the greatest advantages of this Savory Jamaican Rice Bowl is its versatility. You can easily swap out black beans for chickpeas or lentils to cater to your dietary preferences. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled jerk chicken or shrimp on top, complementing the existing flavors. If you’re looking to introduce greens, sautéed spinach or kale can blend beautifully into the mix without overpowering the other ingredients.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the vegetables as well. Zucchini, carrots, or even sweet potatoes can add unique textures and flavors to your rice bowl. Try roasting them beforehand for an added depth of flavor; simply toss with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) until golden and tender, around 20-25 minutes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your jasmine rice turns out too sticky, you may have used too much water. Next time, try reducing the water by a couple of tablespoons. Remember to rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch, which can also contribute to a gummy texture.

When sautéing vegetables, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This can cause steaming rather than sautéing and lead to a mushy texture. If you find this happening, try cooking in smaller batches to ensure each piece has contact with the hot surface of the pan for that perfect golden-brown finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but the cooking time will be longer, about 40-45 minutes. Adjust the liquid accordingly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free. Just ensure your jerk seasoning is also gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can cook the rice and sauté the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just combine and heat before serving.

→ What protein can I add to this dish?

You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it more filling. Just cook the protein separately and mix it in before serving.