Published:
Nov 10th 2021
by 
Last updated: Dec 25th 2024
Bring the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to your table with this Caribbean Coconut Rice & Beans Recipe. Perfectly seasoned with local herbs, creamy coconut milk, and tender beans, this dish is a comforting, flavorful side that pairs beautifully with jerk meats, grilled vegetables, or can be enjoyed on its own. A staple in Caribbean cuisine, this gluten-free, vegan-friendly dish is as nutritious as it is delicious!
Pro Tip - Versatile: Works as a side dish or a hearty main course.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins from the beans and rice.
- Flavorful: The blend of creamy coconut milk and fragrant spices brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen.
- Easy to Make: A one-pot recipe that’s straightforward and fuss-free.
- Rinse Your Rice: Always rinse the rice to remove excess starch for fluffier results.
- Coconut Milk Quality: Use full-fat coconut milk for the best creaminess.
- Herb Options: Fresh thyme can be used instead of dried for a more robust flavor.
- Pair with jerk chicken, pork, or shrimp for an authentic Caribbean meal.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a vegan-friendly option.
- Top with freshly chopped scallions or parsley for added freshness.
- Substitute black beans or pigeon peas for a different flavor profile.
- Use jasmine or basmati rice if long-grain rice is unavailable.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Replace coconut oil with olive oil for a milder flavor.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to refresh.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Rice: Forms the hearty base of the dish and absorbs all the flavors.
- Beans: Add protein and fiber for a balanced meal.
- Coconut Milk: Provides creaminess and a distinct tropical flavor.
- Garlic, Onion, Thyme, Seasoning Peppers: Infuse the dish with aromatic, savory notes.
- Coconut Oil: Enhances the richness and ties the flavors together.
Can I use canned beans for this recipe?
Yes, canned beans work well. Just be sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly before adding them to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal prep.
Can I make this dish in a rice cooker?
Yes, after sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a rice cooker and cook according to your rice cooker’s settings.
How to Make Caribbean Coconut Rice & Beans
Start by heating coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté diced onions, minced garlic, thyme, and seasoning peppers until fragrant. Next, add strained and rinsed beans, stirring to combine with the aromatics.
Wash and rinse the rice thoroughly before adding it to the pot. Pour in coconut milk, stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Allow the rice to steam for an additional 5–10 minutes off the heat for a fluffy texture. Garnish with scallions and serve warm.
Time & Serves
Ingredients
1 can Beans
1 liter Coconut Milk
2 tablespoons Virgin Coconut oil
1 medium Onion -peeled & diced
1 clove Garlic - peeled & minced
1 teaspoon Thyme - dried
3 Seasoning Peppers - minced
2 cups Rice
3 tablespoons Scallions, sliced
Instructions
Using a large saucepan or stockpot, place on medium heat and add the oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the onion, garlic, thyme, and seasoning peppers and sauté for 3-5 minutes.
While the seasonings are cooking, strain, wash and rinse the beans from the can and then add to the vegetables and cook for another 3-5 minutes.
Wash and strain the rice and then mix into the beans and seasoning mixture along with the milk, then raise the heat to be high and bring to a boil.
Once the pot begins to boil, turn the heat to low, cover, and let cook for 15-20 minutes, or follow rice cooking instructions.
When the rice has absorbed all the liquid and there is a light crackling sound, turn off the heat and leave covered for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the rice to steam and absorb any remaining moisture and become more fluffy.
After the rice has steamed, garnish with scallions, serve warm on its own or with your choice of side dish.
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