The last time I made a Jamaican-inspired feast was for our Pirates of the Caribbean movie night and the last time I had proper Caribbean-style rice and beans was in Bermuda (only about 5 years ago!) so I thought it was about time I learned how to make them for myself. This Crockpot Caribbean Rice & Beans is simple, perfectly cooked and a true comfort food!

Crockpot Caribbean Rice and Beans Recipe

Sometimes called “rice and peas,” rice and beans are a staple in Caribbean cuisine. It’s basically the french fry of the Caribbean – served alongside many dishes, and on it’s own when you just desired some filling comfort food.

Every island has it’s own take on this dish – and to be completely honest, I’m not sure what island is the inspiration for this version as I got the recipe off the side of my Pod & Bean seasoning! But it was hearty and delicious so I thought I’d share it with you (with the company’s permission of course).

Adjust the seasoning below to your personal tastes. The dish is creamy, richly flavored and packs a bit of kick, but not enough to make it too spicy for kids. (Or at least kids who like a bit of spice.)

Shortly before serving, prepare your rice and fried plantains to serve alongside the crockpot beans. Of  course, you can cook the rice in the crockpot, but I like having unseasoned rice with the beans to contrast and cool the dish – and cooking the rice in the slow cooker can cause it to become soggier than you may like.

Ingredients for Crockpot Rice & Beans

• 1 lb. black beans, soaked overnight and drained
• 14 oz. coconut cream
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 cup pineapple, diced
• 2 red bell peppers, seeded and diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 Tbsp. tomato paste
• 2 Tbsp.  Pod & Bean™ Caribbean Seasoning Blend
• 2 tsp. Pod & Bean™ Green Chili Hot Sauce
• 3 cups hot water
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Tip: you can use whatever jerk or Caribbean seasoning you desire – just be sure to keep the powder and liquid rations the same.

Kitchen Tools You May Find Helpful

• Crockpot Liners <– I haven’t used these but I have several friends who SWEAR by these for easy clean up
• Measuring cups and spoons

This is the crockpot that I use the most often – it has a thermoshield which not only prevents little fingers from being burned if the kids touch the outside of the crockpot, but it’s also great for bringing along to potlucks. I also like that I can set the cook time on it, so if we end up taking too long playing outside (or running errands) I don’t have to worry about the food burning.

 

How to Make Caribbean Rice and Beans

In a slow cooker, add all ingredients and mix thoroughly.

Close the lid and cook on LOW 4-6 hours or until beans are tender.  Serve with rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

 

This recipe was shared with me from THE COCOA EXHANGE™ POD & BEAN™. (Not a sponsored post)

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This Caribbean Rice & Beans recipe is a delicious and hearty take on an island tradition – and a great vegetarian meal to help stretch your budget.

For more delicious crockpot recipes, check out our Crockpot Bang Bang Shrimp or our Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings.

Check out our other Vegetable Recipes here: