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Authentic Jamaican Red Beans and Rice (Quick & Easy)

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Authentic Jamaican Red Beans and Rice is a quick, flavorful dish made with coconut milk, red beans, and spicy Scotch bonnet peppers. A comforting one-pot meal, perfect as a side or main, especially paired with jerk chicken or fried fish.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 onion, chopped

2 scallions, sliced

12 Scotch bonnets, chopped

2 teaspoons thyme (fresh or dried)

2 cups long-grain rice

1 can red beans, drained

1 can coconut milk

2 cups vegetable broth

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base:

  • Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, sliced scallions, and Scotch bonnet peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.

2. Add the Seasoning:

  • Stir in thyme and cook for an additional minute to release the flavor of the herbs.

3. Cook the Rice:

  • Add rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the seasoned oil and vegetables. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavor.

4. Simmer with Liquids:

  • Pour in the drained red beans, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir well, season with salt and pepper to taste, and bring to a boil.

5. Cook the Rice:

  • Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

6. Finish and Garnish:

  • Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

Adjust the spice by using fewer Scotch bonnet peppers or swapping them for a milder chili variety like jalapeños.

For extra protein, add cooked chicken, shrimp, during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

You can substitute kidney beans if red beans are unavailable.