Jamaican Spiced Lentil Rice Bowl

Name: Jamaican Spiced Lentil Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups vegetable broth or water; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 avocado, sliced (for serving); Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Food

I absolutely love creating vibrant and flavorful dishes, and this Jamaican Spiced Lentil Rice Bowl is one of my favorites. Bursting with spices and nutrients, it not only satisfies my taste buds but also provides a hearty meal that’s perfect any day of the week. I've experimented with various spices and ingredients, and this bowl combines earthy lentils, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables, making it a delightful and filling experience. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to whip it up again and again!

Created by

Elin Matthews

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:17:35.230Z

Creating this Jamaican Spiced Lentil Rice Bowl has turned into a weekly ritual for me. I love how the spices come together to create an incredibly aromatic experience. I recommend toasting the spices before adding them to the lentils for an extra depth of flavor. When combining the rice with the lentils, I found that the balance is key, ensuring that neither ingredient overpowers the other.

On particularly busy days, I love to meal prep a batch to have ready to go. The leftovers taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld. My tip? Add a squeeze of lime just before serving to elevate it to another level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, earthy flavors combined with warm spices
Nutritious and filling, perfect for a wholesome meal
Easy to prepare and great for meal prepping

Perfecting the Balance of Spices

The blend of spices in this dish not only adds flavor but also depth to the overall taste profile. Ground cumin and coriander bring a warm earthiness, while smoked paprika contributes a subtle smokiness. When sautéing your onion and garlic, make sure to cook them until fragrant and translucent—this step is crucial as it forms the flavor base of the dish. A good visual cue is when the onions turn slightly golden, which indicates they are ready for the next ingredients.

If you're looking to amp up the heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño along with the onion and garlic. However, make sure to adjust the quantities according to your preference; starting with less can allow you to taste and gradually build the spice level. This allows those who prefer milder flavors to still enjoy the dish without it becoming overwhelming.

Cooking the Lentils and Rice Together

Cooking the lentils and rice together is a great technique that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Make sure your lentils are rinsed thoroughly before cooking to remove any dust or debris; this helps achieve a cleaner taste. When simmering the lentils, it's essential to keep an eye on the water level—adding a little more broth as needed ensures they cook evenly without becoming mushy. You want them tender, but still holding their shape when combined with the rice.

For the rice, monitoring your cooking time is essential. If using brown rice instead of white, increase the simmering time to about 20–25 minutes, and add an additional half cup of broth. The key is to keep it covered while cooking to lock in moisture, resulting in fluffy grains that mix well with the lentils. Checking for doneness by tasting a grain is a reliable way to confirm that your rice is cooked just right.

Ingredients

For the Lentil Rice Bowl

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 cup long-grain rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups vegetable broth or water
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 avocado, sliced (for serving)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Lentils

In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils with 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes until tender. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.

Prepare the Rice

In another pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Stir in the rice, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute. Add the remaining vegetable broth, bring to a boil, cover, and reduce to a low simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is cooked.

Combine Ingredients

Once the rice is done, add the cooked lentils, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and corn to the rice pot. Stir everything together gently and heat through for about 5 minutes.

Serve

Scoop the lentil rice mixture into bowls, and top with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce when mixing in the vegetables. This bowl pairs wonderfully with a side salad or your favorite bread.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Jamaican Spiced Lentil Rice Bowl, a garnish of fresh cilantro adds a vibrant touch and enhances the dish's aroma. If you're a fan of citrus, a squeeze of lime over the top also elevates the flavors, providing a zesty brightness that contrasts beautifully with the earthiness of the lentils and rice. For a more filling meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to round out your plate.

This bowl is delightful served warm, but it also makes an excellent cold dish. If you prefer it chilled, let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. The flavors will combine even more as it sits, making leftovers just as enjoyable, if not better, the next day. I'm always amazed at how versatile this dish feels and how it can easily transition from a warm, comforting meal to a refreshing lunch option.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping! Once you’ve made your Lentil Rice Bowl, divide the mixture into individual containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you’d like to extend its life, consider freezing portions in airtight containers for up to three months. Remember to leave some space at the top of the container as the lentils and rice expand while freezing.

When reheating, you can either use the microwave or a stovetop pan. If using the microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals while stirring to ensure even warming. On the stovetop, add a splash of vegetable broth to prevent the mixture from drying out as you heat it. This prep process not only saves time during busy weeks but also allows you to enjoy nutritious meals with less effort throughout your day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, brown rice can be used but may require additional cooking time and a bit more water.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just ensure all ingredients used are free from animal products.