Pot Haitian Rice Beans: Amazing Flavor in Under an Hour

Name: Pot Haitian Rice Beans: Amazing Flavor in Under an Hour
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Haitian
Ingredients: 1 cup dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 sprig thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme); 1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper (optional); 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1½ cups jasmine or long-grain rice, rinsed; 3 cups water or vegetable broth; 1 bay leaf; Optional Add-ins: ½ cup coconut milk for richness, ¼ cup chopped green onions for garnish

by basmer

23 de October de 2025

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Instant Pot Haitian rice and beans, affectionately known as Diri Kole ak Pwa, has been a staple in my kitchen for years. There’s something so deeply comforting about the rich aroma of garlic, thyme, and a hint of Scotch bonnet pepper wafting through the house as it cooks. This isn’t just any rice and beans; it’s a flavorful journey to the Caribbean. I first learned how to make this Haitian rice and beans recipe from a dear friend who grew up in Haiti, and she shared her secrets to achieving that perfect, slightly creamy texture. Now, I can bring the taste of authentic Haitian rice and beans right to my family’s table in under an hour, thanks to my Instant Pot. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Haitian Rice and Beans

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of home and a culinary adventure! Here’s why you’ll be making this Instant Pot Haitian rice and beans again and again:

Incredible Flavor: Experience the rich, savory taste that’s a hallmark of Haitian cuisine.
Speedy Prep: With the Instant Pot, you get authentic flavors in a fraction of the traditional time.
Healthy & Wholesome: It’s packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable pantry staples for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
Family Favorite: This comforting one-pot meal is sure to please everyone at your table.
Amazing Aromatics: The blend of garlic, thyme, and optional Scotch bonnet creates a mouthwatering aroma, hinting at the deliciousness of Haitian epis rice and beans.
Effortless Cooking: It’s truly an easy Haitian rice and beans recipe that requires minimal hands-on time.

Ingredients for Authentic Haitian Rice and Beans

Gathering these simple Haitian rice and beans ingredients is the first step to creating this classic Caribbean dish. I’ve found that using quality ingredients really makes a difference in the final flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight – Soaking is crucial for tender beans; older beans might need longer or a pressure cook adjustment.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the aromatics and building a flavor base.
1 small onion, diced – About ½ cup, this adds a foundational sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that classic savory aroma.
1 sprig thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme) – Fresh thyme offers a brighter, more herbaceous note.
1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper (optional) – For a touch of heat; remove seeds for less spice.
2 teaspoons salt – To season the dish properly.
1 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground is always best for flavor.
1½ cups jasmine or long-grain rice, rinsed – Rinsing removes excess starch for fluffy rice.
3 cups water or vegetable broth – Broth adds an extra layer of flavor.
1 bay leaf – Adds a subtle, aromatic depth.
Optional Add-ins: ½ cup coconut milk for richness – This makes the dish extra creamy and luxurious.
Optional Add-ins: ¼ cup chopped green onions for garnish – For a fresh, bright finish.

How to Make Instant Pot Haitian rice and beans

Making traditional Haitian rice and beans, or Diri Kole ak Pwa, used to take hours, but my Instant Pot has changed that! Now I can have this comforting, flavorful dish on the table in about an hour. It’s truly a game-changer for weeknight meals. Let’s dive into the simple steps for Haitian cooking rice and beans the modern way.

Step 1: Prepare the Beans and Aromatics: Start by draining and rinsing your soaked red kidney beans. Turn your Instant Pot to the Sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in the diced onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften and become fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic, thyme sprig, and bay leaf. Stir them around for about 30 seconds until you can really smell their wonderful aroma.
Step 2: Cook the Beans: Add the rinsed, soaked beans to the Instant Pot. Pour in 3 cups of water or vegetable broth. Secure the lid, making sure the steam release valve is set to Sealing. Select the High Pressure cook setting and set the timer for 30 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10-15 minutes before carefully performing a quick release for any remaining steam.
Step 3: Add Rice and Seasoning: Carefully open the lid. Check to ensure the beans are tender; if not, add a little more liquid and pressure cook for another 5-10 minutes. Now, stir in the rinsed jasmine rice, salt, and black pepper. If you like a little heat, add the whole Scotch bonnet pepper now. For an extra creamy texture, stir in the ½ cup of coconut milk.
Step 4: Final Pressure Cook and Release: Give everything a good stir to combine the rice with the beans and liquid. Secure the lid again and set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 5 minutes. Once this cycle finishes, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, perform a quick release to vent any remaining steam. This method ensures the rice cooks perfectly and absorbs all those delicious flavors, creating a wonderful Haitian style rice and beans.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve: Carefully remove the lid. Fish out and discard the thyme sprig, bay leaf, and the Scotch bonnet pepper (unless you want extra heat!). Use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains and mixing everything together. Serve this delicious Haitian style rice and beans hot, either as a main dish or a flavorful side.

Pro Tips for the Best Haitian Rice and Beans

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure my Haitian rice and beans turn out perfectly every single time. Follow these simple tips for delicious results!

Always soak your beans overnight. This is non-negotiable for tender results, especially if you want that perfect Haitian style black beans and rice texture.
Rinse your rice thoroughly. This removes excess starch, preventing a gummy or mushy consistency and ensuring fluffy grains.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Salt needs time to meld, so a final taste test ensures perfect flavor balance.
Don’t skip the natural pressure release for the second cook. It allows the rice to finish steaming gently, leading to a better texture.

What’s the secret to perfect Haitian rice and beans?

The secret lies in the combination of properly soaked beans and the aromatic base, often featuring thyme and garlic, which creates a deeply flavorful foundation for the rice. It’s all about building layers of flavor.

Can I make Haitian rice and beans ahead of time?

Yes! You can soak the beans overnight and even sauté the aromatics the day before. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This makes cooking day even faster.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Haitian rice and beans?

Common mistakes include not soaking beans long enough, leading to undercooked beans, or overcooking the rice, which makes it mushy. Always rinse your rice and use the natural release time for the best texture.

Best Ways to Serve Haitian Rice and Beans

This flavorful Haitian rice and beans dish is incredibly versatile and forms the heart of many wonderful meals. It’s perfect as a satisfying main course or a vibrant Haitian rice and beans side dish. Personally, I love pairing it with tender, slow-cooked meats like griot (fried pork) or a rich chicken stew. For a delicious vegetarian option, serve it alongside some crispy fried plantains or a fresh, zesty avocado salad. It truly shines as a cornerstone of any authentic Haitian food rice and beans spread, bringing warmth and flavor to the table.

Nutrition Facts for Instant Pot Haitian Rice and Beans

This Haitian rice and beans recipe is not only delicious but also a fairly healthy choice when prepared this way. Each serving of this comforting Caribbean classic offers a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per cup:

Calories: 320
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 11g
Sodium: 520mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the type of broth or if coconut milk is added.

How to Store and Reheat Haitian Rice and Beans

One of the best things about this Haitian rice and beans recipe is how well it keeps! Proper Haitian rice and beans recipe storage means you can enjoy this delicious dish for days. Once cooked, I let my Diri Kole ak Pwa cool down completely on the counter for about an hour. Then, I transfer it into airtight containers. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If I know I won’t finish it within that time, I portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months!

Reheating is super simple. For refrigerated portions, I usually microwave them with a splash of water or vegetable broth until heated through. If reheating from frozen, I’ll often transfer it to the refrigerator the night before to thaw, then reheat as usual. You can also reheat directly from frozen on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a little liquid as needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions About Haitian Rice and Beans

What is Haitian rice and beans?

Haitian rice and beans, known as Diri Kole ak Pwa, is a foundational dish in Haitian cuisine. It’s a flavorful one-pot meal where rice and beans are cooked together with aromatics like garlic, onion, and thyme, often seasoned with a hint of spice. It’s a staple that represents comfort and tradition.

What is the Haitian diri kole recipe?

The Haitian diri kole recipe is essentially the method for making this classic rice and beans dish. “Diri Kole” translates to “sticky rice” or “clumped rice,” referring to the slightly moist, cohesive texture achieved when the rice and beans cook together. My Instant Pot version simplifies this traditional cooking process significantly.

Can I use different types of beans for Haitian rice and beans?

While red kidney beans are traditional, you can absolutely experiment! Many people enjoy a delicious Haitian style black beans and rice, or even using pigeon peas for a variation on Haitian peas and rice. Just ensure you adjust soaking and cooking times based on the bean type.

What protein is typically served with Haitian rice and beans?

Haitian food rice and beans is often served with flavorful meats. Popular pairings include griot (crispy fried pork), chicken in a rich sauce (poulet au sauce), or baked fish. For a vegetarian meal, it’s fantastic with fried plantains or a simple side salad.

Variations of Haitian Rice and Beans You Can Try

While the classic Diri Kole ak Pwa is incredible, I love how versatile this dish is! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

Haitian Rice and Beans with Meat: Add shredded chicken, pulled pork, or even some smoked sausage during the second pressure cooking phase for a complete one-pot meal. This makes it even heartier!
Haitian Rice and Beans Vegetarian: For a completely meat-free option, simply omit any meat add-ins. It’s already naturally vegan if you use vegetable broth and skip the optional coconut milk, making it a fantastic Haitian rice and beans vegetarian delight.
Spicy Black Bean Version: Swap the red kidney beans for black beans and adjust the seasoning slightly. This creates a delicious Haitian style black beans and rice that’s just as satisfying.
Creamy Coconut Milk Richness: Don’t skip the optional coconut milk if you love a richer, creamier texture. It adds a wonderful depth that complements the spices beautifully.