Jamaican Black Bean Rice Bowl

Name: Jamaican Black Bean Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup brown rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh); 1 avocado, sliced; 1 lime, juiced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Cherry tomatoes, halved; Jalapeño slices (optional); Sour cream or yogurt (optional)

Highlighted under: Inspired Planning

I absolutely love creating dishes that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! This Jamaican Black Bean Rice Bowl is a vibrant and satisfying meal that combines the earthy flavors of black beans with the fluffy goodness of brown rice. The addition of fresh vegetables and a zesty lime dressing elevates the entire dish, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. With just a bit of cooking time and simple ingredients, this bowl is bound to become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it does in yours too!

Created by

Jemima Fox

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:29:35.942Z

When I first tried a Jamaican Black Bean Rice Bowl on a visit to a Caribbean restaurant, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The mix of spices and the freshness of the ingredients made it a delightful dish that I could eat any day of the week. I experimented with various toppings, and it was the sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice that truly brought everything together.

What’s great about this recipe is its versatility; you can personalize it to include your favorite vegetables or grains. I decided to use brown rice for its nutty flavor and health benefits. This bowl can easily become a go-to for both meal prep and a quick weeknight dinner.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for hungry appetites
Bold, Caribbean flavors that brighten any meal
Nutritious and easily customizable for every palate

      

Balancing the Flavors

The combination of black beans and brown rice not only adds a hearty texture but also offers a beautiful balance of protein and fiber. The earthy richness of the black beans complements the nutty notes of brown rice, making each bite fulfilling. When you sauté the vegetables, like red bell pepper and corn, they infuse the dish with sweetness and crunch, enhancing overall flavor. Aim for a slight char on the veggies to deepen the taste; this will give them a glossy finish and bring out their natural sugars.

Using lime juice in the sautéed mixture adds a zesty brightness that lightens the dish wonderfully. I recommend using fresh lime juice whenever possible as it contributes a vibrant acidity compared to bottled alternatives. You can adjust the lime amount based on your taste preference, but start with one lime and add more incrementally while tasting to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

Customizing Your Bowl

This Jamaican Black Bean Rice Bowl is extremely versatile, allowing for various substitutions based on dietary needs or personal preferences. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free brown rice or quinoa, which will also maintain a similar nutty profile. If you want to add even more veggies, consider incorporating sautéed spinach, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes for an extra nutrient boost. Just be mindful of cooking times; you might need to adjust accordingly to ensure all ingredients are tender yet not overcooked.

For those looking for added protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be excellent additions. Sauté them with the vegetables to absorb the same spices. If you're aiming for a vegan dish, feel free to skip the sour cream or yogurt entirely or replace it with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut yogurt, which can bring a creamy texture that pairs well with the spice of jalapeños.

Ingredients

For the Rice Bowl

1 cup brown rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
1 avocado, sliced
1 lime, juiced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste

For Toppings

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Jalapeño slices (optional)
Sour cream or yogurt (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the brown rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 25 minutes until all liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the diced red bell pepper and corn, cooking for about 5 minutes until tender. Stir in the black beans, lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the cooked brown rice, followed by the sautéed veggie mix. Top with sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, tomatoes, and jalapeño slices if desired. Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other veggies like spinach or zucchini to the skillet! You can also use quinoa instead of brown rice for a different twist.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To enjoy this bowl throughout the week, consider meal prepping! The brown rice and sautéed vegetable mixture can be made in advance and stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. This makes assembling the bowl a quick process during busy weekdays. Just reheat everything in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture without overcooking the ingredients.

If you want to store leftovers, do so separately; keep the rice and veggie mixture separated from the avocado and lime juice to prevent browning and maintain freshness. Avocado can be added fresh just before serving to keep it creamy and green, adding visual appeal to your presentation.

Serving Suggestions

I love to serve the rice bowl with additional toppings that offer varied textures and flavors. Consider garnishing with sliced jalapeños for heat, or adding fresh cherry tomatoes for a juicy pop. A sprinkling of feta or queso fresco can also provide a salty counterbalance that elevates the entire dish. Each element contributes something unique to the bowl, so don't hesitate to mix and match based on what you have on hand.

If you're hosting, consider setting up a DIY rice bowl bar! Prepare the base components—rice and sautéed veggies—and allow guests to customize their bowls with toppings like olives, pickled onions, or various salsas. This interactive approach not only makes for a fun meal but ensures everyone gets a bowl tailored to their liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can substitute white rice, but reduce the cooking time according to the package instructions.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, the Jamaican Black Bean Rice Bowl is completely vegan and gluten-free.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

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

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rice and veggies ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.