Jamaican Rice and Peas - orthodox.fast

Other Fast With Oil Published January 24, 2026

Jamaican rice and peas is one of the Caribbean's greatest contributions to the world's table — long-grain rice cooked in coconut milk with kidney beans, thyme, and the quiet menace of a whole scotch bonnet pepper. The "peas" are kidney beans (Caribbean English), the coconut milk makes it rich without any dairy, and the scotch bonnet perfumes the entire pot with fruity heat without making it unbearably spicy — as long as you do not puncture it.

This is a complete meal on its own, with protein from the beans and fat from the coconut milk.

FASTING LEVEL: Fast With Oil
SERVINGS: 6
TIME: 35 minutes

INGREDIENTS

- 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed until water runs clear
- 1 can (400ml) full-fat coconut milk
- 1.5 cups water
- 1 can (400g) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 whole scotch bonnet pepper (do NOT puncture)
- 3 whole allspice berries (or 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice)
- 2 green onions, left whole
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

METHOD

1. In a large pot, combine the coconut milk, water, kidney beans, garlic, thyme, allspice berries, green onions, oil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

2. Place the whole scotch bonnet pepper on top of the liquid — it should sit on the surface. Do not push it down or break it.

3. Add the rinsed rice. Stir once to distribute evenly, then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly and cook for 20-25 minutes, until the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender.

4. Remove from heat and let steam, covered, for 5 minutes. Remove the scotch bonnet, thyme sprigs, allspice berries, and green onions.

5. Fluff with a fork and serve.

NOTES

- The scotch bonnet is there for aroma and gentle heat, not pain. Keep it whole. If it breaks, the rice becomes very spicy — some people want this, but be warned.
- This pairs beautifully with stewed vegetables, fried plantains, or a simple salad.
- On fish days, serve alongside jerk-seasoned grilled shrimp or sauteed shrimp — shellfish are always permitted during fasting.
- If you cannot find scotch bonnet, use a habanero. They are close cousins.
- Leftovers reheat perfectly in a covered pot with a splash of water over low heat.