Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans

Name: Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups black beans (soaked overnight and drained); 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lime, juiced; 2 cups vegetable broth

Highlighted under: Fresh Inspiration

I absolutely love cooking with black beans, and this Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans recipe is one of my favorites. The combination of coconut milk and spices creates a delightful Caribbean twist on a classic dish. Cooking the beans slowly allows them to soak up the rich flavors, resulting in a creamy and aromatic meal that's simply irresistible. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty main course, this recipe is sure to impress both family and friends with its vibrant taste and tantalizing aroma.

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2026-01-14T06:53:43.904Z

When I first made Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans, I was blown away by how easily the spices infused the beans with flavor. I decided to use a mix of cumin, allspice, and thyme to evoke that classic Jamaican taste. Cooking them low and slow really allowed the coconut milk to create a rich, creamy base that balanced out the spices beautifully.

The highlight for me was adding a touch of lime juice at the end, which brightened everything up. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a wholesome meal—truly a must-try if you want something both comforting and vibrant!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture from the coconut milk that beautifully complements the spices
Rich, aromatic flavors that transport you to the Caribbean
Easy to make and a fantastic side or main dish for any occasion

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star of this recipe, adding a creamy richness that elevates the black beans to a whole new level. It not only enhances the texture but also infuses the dish with a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. When selecting coconut milk, look for a full-fat option for the best result, as this will create a luscious sauce. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can use light coconut milk, but be aware that it may result in a thinner consistency.

To achieve the ideal creamy texture, it’s essential to stir the coconut milk well before adding it to the pot. This helps to incorporate the fat evenly, ensuring a smooth mixture without separation. During cooking, you’ll know you’ve achieved the right consistency when the beans absorb some of the liquid and the dish looks glossy and thick.

Perfecting the Spices

The spices you choose can make a significant difference in the flavor profile of the Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans. Ground cumin adds earthiness, while allspice provides a warm, aromatic note. For an extra depth of taste, consider using whole spices and toasting them in the pot before adding the onions. This technique brings out their essential oils, creating an even richer flavor base.

If you want a bit of heat, consider adding diced Scotch bonnet peppers along with the onions. This traditional spice not only contributes heat but also adds layers of fruity and floral flavors that pair beautifully with the coconut milk. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your desired spice level, tasting as you go.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start to make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable!

Ingredients

2 cups black beans (soaked overnight and drained)
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lime, juiced
2 cups vegetable broth

Once you have everything ready, you'll be on your way to creating this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure perfect results!

Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add the spices

Stir in the ground cumin, allspice, and fresh thyme, allowing the spices to cook with the onions for an additional 2 minutes to release their flavors.

Combine the beans and broth

Add the soaked black beans, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the beans

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for about 40-45 minutes until the beans are tender and the liquid has thickened, stirring occasionally.

Finish with lime

Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider including a diced Scotch bonnet pepper during the cooking process—just be mindful of the heat level!

Storage and Reheating

Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors continue to develop as they sit, so you might find they taste even better the next day. Ensure they are completely cooled before storing, and avoid leaving them out for more than two hours at room temperature to prevent spoilage.

When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the beans to restore their creamy consistency, as the mixture may thicken in the fridge. Heat them gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed through to prevent sticking. For a quicker option, you can microwave them in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

These Jamaican Coconut Spiced Black Beans are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a filling main course, serve them over fluffy rice or quinoa, allowing the grains to soak up the aromatic sauce. You can also pair them with warm, crusty bread for a hearty meal, or use them as a filling for burritos or tacos, complete with avocado and fresh salsa.

If you're serving them as a side dish, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving for a burst of color and freshness. Combining them with grilled meats or fish complements the beans' rich flavors beautifully and offers a complete Caribbean dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black beans?

Yes! If you're short on time, you can use 2 cans of black beans, but reduce the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a vegan option?

Absolutely! This recipe is inherently vegan since it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.

→ What can I serve this with?

These spiced black beans pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even as a filling for tacos or burritos.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.