Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet

Name: Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 carrot, sliced; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 scotch bonnet pepper, whole (for flavor); 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Smart Quick Meals Recipes

I love cooking flavorful dishes that transport me to tropical places, and this Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet does just that. The blend of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices creates a delightful harmony on the plate. In just 30 minutes, I can whip up this vibrant meal packed with nutrients. Whether it's for a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends, this skillet dish never fails to impress. Join me in exploring the colorful tastes of Jamaica with this simple and satisfying recipe!

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:55:35.362Z

This Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet became a family favorite shortly after I first made it. I loved how the combination of bell peppers, peas, and the slight kick of scotch bonnet inspired a sunny picnic vibe, even if we were just at home. Highly aromatic, this dish is about letting the veggies shine while allowing the spices to enhance their natural sweetness.

This recipe also taught me the importance of cooking rice until it’s perfectly fluffy. I learned to toast the rice briefly in the skillet before adding liquid, ensuring each grain gets infused with flavor and preventing it from becoming mushy. A simple technique that makes a world of difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant and colorful presentation that pleases the eyes
Bursting with authentic Jamaican flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Getting the Right Texture

Achieving the perfect texture for the rice in this Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet is essential. It's vital to ensure that the rice is well-coated in oil before adding the broth. This step helps each grain become fluffy and prevents them from sticking together. Aim for the rice to absorb all the liquid evenly, which usually takes around 15 minutes on low heat. Checking the rice around the 10-minute mark can prevent overcooking and ensure that every grain remains separate and tender.

Remember to remove the scotch bonnet pepper after cooking. While it imparts wonderful flavor during the simmering process, leaving it in for too long can result in a dish that's too spicy for most palates. The heat builds gradually, so taste testing a bit of rice before removing it ensures you keep the right balance of flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find a scotch bonnet pepper, feel free to use a milder pepper such as a jalapeño for a bit of heat without overwhelming spice. Alternatively, for non-spicy options, consider using a sweet bell pepper or even a splash of hot sauce added to taste at the end of cooking. Additionally, brown rice can be used instead of long-grain rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid—typically an additional 10-15 minutes and possibly another half a cup of broth.

For a more diverse array of vegetables, you can also add chopped zucchini or corn, which will add sweetness and brightness to the dish. Using seasonal vegetables can enhance not only flavor but also nutritional value, making this dish adaptable according to what's fresh and available in your area.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet is an excellent make-ahead option. Once cooked, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Heat it gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This will also help to revive any leftover textures, keeping your dish delightful.

For those looking to meal prep, you can prepare the vegetables and store them separately, then simply sauté and cook on the day you want to serve it. This not only saves time but also ensures you have a nutritious meal ready in minutes. Scaling up the recipe is simple, just maintain the same ratios while keeping an eye on the cooking time, especially if using a larger skillet.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make this delightful dish:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 carrot, sliced
1 cup frozen peas
2 green onions, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 scotch bonnet pepper, whole (for flavor)
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize the vegetable mix according to your preference.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the chopped bell pepper, sliced carrot, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften. Don't forget to stir occasionally!

Toast the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil and cook for 2 minutes. This toasting step enhances the rice's flavor.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the vegetable broth into the mixture along with the thyme and the whole scotch bonnet pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low, simmering for about 15 minutes.

Finish the Dish

Once the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, remove the scotch bonnet pepper. Gently fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the frozen peas and green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve warm and enjoy the delicious flavors of Jamaica!

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro or serving with lime wedges.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant Jamaican Vegetable Rice Skillet pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some chutney to complement its flavors. A side of mango salsa can add a tropical twist and enhance the overall dining experience. Consider serving this dish as a main alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal that's bursting with flavors.

For a heartier option, you could top the rice with some fried plantains, which will add both sweetness and texture. They offer a pleasing contrast to the savory elements of the skillet, creating a truly satisfying dish that your friends and family will adore.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice turns out too mushy, it's likely that too much liquid was added or it was cooked too long. For next time, ensure you're measuring the broth accurately and checking the rice's doneness a few minutes before the end of the cooking time. Adjust the flame to low immediately once it reaches a boil to maintain a gentle simmer.

On the other hand, if the rice is undercooked, it may need more liquid or time to absorb the flavor. In this case, feel free to add a little more vegetable broth and cover it back up for a few extra minutes. Regular checks can help you get the perfect texture with every batch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice generally takes longer to cook.

→ What if I can't find a scotch bonnet pepper?

You can substitute it with a jalapeño or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder dish.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based, making it suitable for vegans.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be reheated easily.