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 jasmine rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 ripe avocado, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love creating dishes that are vibrant and packed with flavor, and this Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl checks all the boxes. It's a hearty meal that combines fluffy rice with spiced black beans, fresh herbs, and a zesty lime dressing. Every bite is a celebration of Caribbean cuisine, making it perfect for any night of the week. Plus, it's super easy to whip up, which is a bonus for busy schedules. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for trying this recipe!

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:21:35.007Z

When I first made this Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl, I was inspired by the colorful street food I had experienced in Jamaica. The combination of black beans, jasmine rice, and tropical ingredients like mango and lime creates a taste explosion in every bite. I learned that cooking the black beans with spices brings out their natural sweetness and complements the dish perfectly.

This meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. I often make a large batch and store individual portions in the fridge for a quick and healthy lunch. The key is to let the flavors meld together, which makes them even better the next day!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and vibrant flavors that transport you to Jamaica
Nutritious and filling, perfect for any meal
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

      

Flavorful Components of the Dish

The key to the Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl is in the spices used for the black beans. Cumin provides an earthy undertone, while smoked paprika adds a sweet, robust flavor with a hint of smokiness. It's essential to toast the spices slightly by cooking them with the beans; this releases their essential oils, intensifying their flavor. Aim for a medium heat to avoid burning the spices, which can introduce bitterness into the dish.

Incorporating fresh ingredients like cilantro and lime juice at the end not only enhances the dish's visual appeal but also elevates the overall flavor profile. The acidity from the lime cuts through the richness of the black beans and the creamy avocado, balancing the bowl beautifully. Don't skip this step; the freshness of the herbs and the zing from the lime are what make this dish distinctively Jamaican.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Rice

Cooking jasmine rice requires attention to water ratios and timing to ensure it's fluffy and not mushy. Using vegetable broth instead of water adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the spiced beans. Always rinse the rice under cold water before cooking; this removes excess starch and prevents clumping. Once you bring the broth to a boil, immediately reduce the heat to low and let it simmer undisturbed—resist the temptation to lift the lid, as this traps steam essential for cooking.

If you find yourself with leftover rice, it stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze cooked rice for up to three months. To reheat, simply add a splash of water to help re-steam it, covering it to trap the moisture. This ensures your rice stays tender and doesn’t dry out.

Customizing Your Bowl

This recipe is exceptionally adaptable. While the base ingredients create a delightful dish, you can easily swap out toppings based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For an extra crunch, consider adding diced bell peppers or shredded carrots. If you want more protein, grilled chicken or tofu can be fantastic additions. For those who enjoy some heat, a sprinkle of diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce can kick up the spice level.

For a vegan-friendly alternative to sour cream, try a dollop of cashew cream or a vegan yogurt. Serve this bowl with tortilla chips on the side for added texture, or over a bed of greens for a lighter option. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a great template for your culinary creativity.

Ingredients

For the Rice and Beans

1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings

1 ripe avocado, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime

Feel free to customize your toppings and add your favorite vegetables!

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, combine jasmine rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Prepare the Black Beans

In a skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beans are heated through.

Assemble the Bowl

Once the rice is ready, fluff it with a fork and divide it into serving bowls. Top with the spiced black beans, and then add the sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, corn, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over the top.

Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the black beans with your favorite Caribbean spices before cooking. You can also substitute quinoa for rice if you prefer a healthier option.

Storing and Reheating

To make this recipe even more convenient, consider preparing the rice and beans in larger batches. Both components save well; rice can be refrigerated for about a week, and beans up to five days. When storing, always ensure the rice is cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid bacterial growth. You can reheat them separately or together, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.

If you plan to freeze, portion out the rice and beans into serving sizes in freezer-safe bags. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to avoid hot spots, ensuring not to overcook and dry them out.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Black Bean and Rice Bowl not only shines as a main dish but also works wonderfully as a hearty side. Pair it with grilled fish or a simple green salad to create a well-rounded meal. If you want to serve it at a gathering, consider a build-your-own bowl setup, where guests can customize their toppings according to their preference.

For an impressive presentation, serve the dish in hollowed-out avocado halves. This not only makes for stunning plating but enhances the avocado flavor throughout the bowl. Don’t forget to squeeze extra lime on top right before serving; this final touch brightens the dish and brings all the flavors together beautifully.

Dietary Adjustments

If you're looking to reduce carbs, substituting the rice with cauliflower rice is a great option. It will lower the calorie count while still providing a filling base. Just sauté the cauliflower rice in a little oil until tender, about 5-7 minutes, adjusting the spices as necessary to maintain the flavor profile of the dish.

For those with dietary restrictions such as gluten intolerance, rejoice in knowing this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any toppings or additional ingredients you choose also meet these requirements. Additionally, for a more protein-packed version, adding lentils could be a great boost while maintaining the vegan integrity of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just check the ingredients for any added sauces.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Absolutely! Just note that brown rice may require more cooking time and liquid.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add grated cheese, salsa, or even grilled chicken or fish for extra protein!