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 of brown rice; 2 cups of vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning; 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or frozen); Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish; Sliced avocado; Fresh cilantro; Lime wedges; Sour cream or Greek yogurt

Highlighted under: Natural Cooking

Every time I make this Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl, I’m reminded of the vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients that come together perfectly. I love how the mix of spices creates a warm, comforting dish that's both nourishing and satisfying. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience! From the earthy black beans to the fluffy rice, it's a colorful combination that I always look forward to sharing with friends and family. Plus, it’s so easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it a weeknight dinner winner.

Created by

Miranda Keats

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:16:50.343Z

The first time I made this Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl, I was captivated by the explosion of flavors. The secret lies in the spices; using a good quality jerk seasoning truly elevates the dish. It's amazing how just a few simple ingredients can create such depth and richness.

The texture of the black beans paired with the tender rice is something I adore. I often experiment with additional toppings like sliced avocado or fresh cilantro, which add delightful creaminess and a burst of freshness to every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant and bold flavors that transport you to the Caribbean
Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious and satisfying, making it a healthy choice

Understanding Jerk Seasoning

Jerk seasoning is the heart of this Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl, infusing it with a lively, earthy flavor profile. A typical blend includes ingredients like allspice, thyme, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper, providing a depth of flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the corn and the earthiness of the black beans. If you can't find pre-made jerk seasoning, you can create your own by mixing these spices in a bowl; just adjust the spice levels to your preference.

For those seeking a milder dish, consider reducing the amount of jerk seasoning or substituting smoked paprika for a slightly different flavor without overwhelming heat. Keep in mind that the seasoning not only adds flavor but also contributes to the overall aroma of the dish, making it a feast for the senses!

Rice Cooking Techniques

Cooking the brown rice properly is crucial for creating a fluffy base for your bowl. When simmering the rice, ensure that you keep the pot covered to maintain steam, which helps to cook the rice evenly. If your rice isn't soft enough after 30 minutes, add a splash more broth, cover, and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes. Remember, the rice should be tender but not mushy, maintaining a slight bite to it.

If you're short on time, using a pressure cooker or rice cooker can significantly decrease cooking time, allowing the rice to cook perfectly in about 10-15 minutes. This method is especially useful if you're preparing multiple servings or need to multitask while making the rest of the bowl!

Customizing Your Bowl

This bowl is highly adaptable, inviting a variety of toppings and modifications to suit personal tastes. For instance, adding sliced avocado brings a creamy texture, while fresh cilantro adds a burst of brightness. Lime wedges on the side not only enhance the flavors with their acidity but also elevate the overall freshness of the dish. If you want to introduce a protein element, grilled chicken or shrimp can be excellent additions, turning the bowl into an even heartier meal.

For a vegan option, swapping sour cream for a creamy cashew or tofu-based dressing can mimic that rich texture without any dairy. Remember that you can also play around with the vegetables; adding sautéed zucchini or roasted sweet potatoes can introduce new flavors and colors to your dish.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 cup of brown rice
2 cups of vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning
1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Optional Toppings

Sliced avocado
Fresh cilantro
Lime wedges
Sour cream or Greek yogurt

Mix and match your ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Cook the Rice

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

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Add Beans and Spices

Stir in the black beans, jerk seasoning, corn, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through and flavors meld.

Assemble the Bowl

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Divide the rice among bowls and top with the black bean mixture. Garnish with chopped green onions and any optional toppings you desire.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the black beans mixture.

Storage Tips

If your Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl yields leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple; just place the bowl in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. You may want to add a splash of vegetable broth to maintain moisture when reheating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the bean mixture and cooked rice separately. Place them in freezer-safe containers or bags, and they'll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop for best results, ensuring everything is heated through before serving.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or larger gatherings. To double the recipe, simply adjust the quantities of each ingredient. Keep in mind that you may need a larger pot for the rice and a bigger skillet for sautéing the vegetables, allowing for better cooking without overcrowding.

If you plan on making individual servings, consider prepping the components ahead of time. You can cook the rice and mix the black bean mixture earlier in the week. This way, when it's time for dinner, you only need to assemble the bowls, saving time and making serving a breeze!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, but the cooking time will be different. White rice typically cooks faster, about 15-20 minutes.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! This dish is fully vegan yet packed with protein from the black beans.

→ Can I make this bowl in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for jerk seasoning?

If you can’t find jerk seasoning, a mix of paprika, cayenne, and thyme will work as a great alternative.