Belizean Rice and Beans
This is a traditional Belizean rice and beans recipe and a real staple in Belize. Rice, beans, onions, and garlic are simmered in coconut milk for a delicious side.
By Nadia Kovalenko
Posted October 13, 2026Share
Time
Calories
Servings
Difficulty
Description
This is a traditional Belizean rice and beans recipe and a real staple in Belize. Rice, beans, onions, and garlic are simmered in coconut milk for a delicious side.
Quick Tip Read the recipe in its entirety before you start cooking. This will help you understand the ingredients, steps, and timing involved, and allow you to prepare any necessary equipment or ingredients beforehand.
Ingredients 11
1 pound dry kidney beans
1.5 quarts water, or as needed
3 cloves garlic, minced
0.5 medium onion, chopped
0.5 medium red bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup white rice
0.75 cup coconut milk
0.75 cup water
Instructions
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1
Put the kidney beans in a large bowl, cover with a few inches of cool water, and let soak 8 hours to overnight.
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2
Drain and transfer beans to a stockpot. Add 1 1/2 quarts water (or enough to cover) and bring it to a boil. Add garlic, reduce the heat to low, and simmer until beans are tender, about 1 hour. Take it off the heat and stir in the onion, bell pepper, oil, salt, and pepper.
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3
Cook and stir rice in a large saucepan over low heat until toasted and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the coconut milk, 3/4 cup water, and kidney beans, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook until rice is tender, 30 to 40 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 16
Amount Per Serving
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Calories 168 kcal
% Daily Value *
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Total Fat 3g
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Saturated Fat 2g
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Sodium 79mg
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Total Carbohydrate 29g
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Dietary Fiber 5g
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Protein 8g
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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