Get ready to spice up your meals with these mouth-watering Jamaican cabbage recipes! The versatility of this humble vegetable is unmatched, and when paired with bold flavors and spices, it becomes a true culinary superstar. In Jamaica, cabbage is a staple ingredient that’s often used in traditional dishes like soups, stews, stir-fries, and sautés. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to warm up your belly or a flavorful side dish to impress your friends, Jamaican cabbage recipes have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the islands of Jamaica, showcasing 20 spicy and delicious recipes that will leave you craving more. From classic dishes like steamed cabbage with carrots and thyme to innovative creations like jerk-seasoned roasted cabbage wedges, there’s something for every palate and cooking style. So grab your apron, put on some reggae music, and let’s get cooking!
Jamaican Steamed Cabbage with Carrots and Thyme
This classic Jamaican side dish is a flavorful blend of tender cabbage, sweet carrots, and aromatic thyme. Perfect for accompanying your favorite Caribbean-inspired main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks of fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or steamer basket, combine the cabbage, carrots, thyme, and garlic.
2. Add the vegetable oil, salt, and pepper, and toss to combine.
3. Pour in the water, making sure that the vegetables are covered.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot or basket.
5. Steam for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the carrots are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Jamaican Cabbage Stir-Fry with Scotch Bonnet Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of Jamaica with a spicy kick from scotch bonnet peppers, perfect for those who enjoy a little heat. This dish is quick and easy to make, making it an ideal option for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped scotch bonnet peppers and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until slightly softened.
5. Add the cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry until it reaches your desired level of doneness (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Season with salt to taste. If using, add cooked chicken or shrimp and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Jamaican Cabbage and Saltfish Sauté
This classic Jamaican dish is a staple in many households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and pairs perfectly with a side of rice or roti. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making a delicious and authentic Jamaican Cabbage and Saltfish Sauté.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, chopped
– 1/2 cup salted cod fish (saltfish), flaked
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the flaked saltfish and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Curried Jamaican Cabbage with Coconut Milk
A flavorful twist on traditional cabbage recipes, this dish combines the spices of Jamaica with the creaminess of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shredded cabbage, curry powder, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Jerk-Seasoned Roasted Jamaican Cabbage Wedges
Discover the bold flavors of Jamaica with this simple recipe that combines sweet and spicy notes. Perfect as a side dish or snack, these roasted cabbage wedges are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions and/or 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the cabbage into wedges, removing any tough or damaged leaves.
3. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
4. Brush both sides of each cabbage wedge with the jerk-olive oil mixture.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Arrange cabbage wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Callaloo Medley
A flavorful and nutritious medley that combines the sweetness of cabbage with the earthy taste of callaloo, a type of amaranth leaf. This dish is a staple in Jamaican cuisine and is often served as a side or used as an accompaniment to other dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium cabbage, chopped
– 2 cups fresh callaloo leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional), chopped
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, callaloo, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the greens have wilted.
4. Add the cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the other ingredients.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Jamaican Cabbage with Crispy Bacon
This Caribbean-inspired side dish combines the sweetness of cabbage, the richness of butter and garlic, and the crunch of crispy bacon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a flavorful accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the grated ginger and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top the cabbage mixture with crumbled bacon and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Potato Stew
This classic Jamaican stew is a staple of island cuisine, combining the sweetness of cabbage and potatoes with the bold flavors of chilies and spices. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
2. Add chopped cabbage, potatoes, Scotch bonnet pepper (if using), cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
3. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until potatoes and cabbage are tender.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Caribbean-Style Cabbage and Plantain Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious twist on a classic stir-fry, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of plantains with the crunch of cabbage, all infused with the bold spices and aromas of the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
– 1 large plantain, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the plantain slices and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until they begin to caramelize.
5. Add the cabbage and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until it reaches desired tenderness.
6. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Corned Beef Skillet
A hearty one-pot wonder that combines the sweetness of caramelized cabbage with the savory flavors of corned beef, all in a flavorful skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 pound corned beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the corned beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and caramelized.
6. Return the corned beef to the skillet and season with cumin, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Jamaican Cabbage Soup with Dumplings
This hearty soup combines the flavors of Jamaica with a spicy kick, served with fluffy dumplings for a comforting meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a main course for a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium cabbage, shredded
– 2 Scotch bonnet peppers (or substitute with jalapeños), seeded and chopped
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– For dumplings: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cornmeal, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add cabbage, Scotch bonnet peppers, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
4. For dumplings: Whisk together flour, cornmeal, and salt. Gradually add water; stir until a dough forms.
5. Drop by spoonfuls onto the soup surface; cook for an additional 10-12 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Red Peppers in Coconut Sauce
This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional cabbage dishes, combining the sweetness of red peppers with the creaminess of coconut sauce. It’s a perfect side dish for your next Caribbean-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, chopped
– 2 large red bell peppers, sliced
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger; sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the sliced red peppers and cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Add the chopped cabbage and stir well to combine with the pepper mixture.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Shrimp Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this vibrant stir-fry, featuring succulent shrimp, crunchy cabbage, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cabbage to the pan and cook until slightly wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in curry powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Return shrimp to the pan and stir to combine with cabbage mixture. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow-Cooked Jamaican Cabbage with Smoked Turkey
This hearty stew is a flavorful twist on traditional cabbage and turkey, slow-cooked to perfection in the Caribbean style.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium cabbage, shredded
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, combine turkey, cabbage, garlic, onion, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using).
2. Add chicken broth, brown sugar, soy sauce, and cumin.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Jamaican Cabbage and Pumpkin Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Jamaican cuisine, blending the sweetness of pumpkin with the earthiness of cabbage and the warmth of aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish to accompany your favorite Caribbean-inspired main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 small pumpkin (about 1 lb), peeled and cubed
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the cabbage, pumpkin, Scotch bonnet pepper (if using), cumin, curry powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Grilled Jamaican Cabbage with Jerk Marinade
This Caribbean-inspired side dish is a flavorful twist on traditional cabbage. The spicy jerk marinade adds depth and complexity to the grilled cabbage, making it perfect for summer barbecues or as a accompaniment to your favorite jerk chicken or pork.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 1/2 cup jerk marinade (see below)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Jerk Marinade:
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together marinade ingredients. Add cabbage wedges and toss to coat.
3. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove from marinade and brush with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill cabbage for 5-7 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Green Banana Sauté
This flavorful sauté combines the sweetness of green bananas with the tanginess of cabbage, a classic Jamaican combination. It’s a quick and easy side dish that pairs well with your favorite protein or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 green bananas, sliced
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the green bananas and cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to brown.
4. Add the cabbage, Scotch bonnet pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Coconut Cream Jamaican Cabbage with Chickpeas
This flavorful recipe combines the richness of coconut cream with the spiciness of Jamaican cabbage, all wrapped up in a nutritious and filling meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup coconut cream
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic, allspice, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the coconut cream and stir to combine.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Okra Stir-Fry
A flavorful and vibrant stir-fry that combines the sweetness of cabbage with the earthy taste of okra, all tied together with a hint of Jamaican spices. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish to accompany your favorite Caribbean-inspired main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup sliced okra
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cabbage and okra, stirring to combine. Cook for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Stir in the curry powder and cumin. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful twist on traditional hash, this recipe combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tanginess of cabbage, all wrapped up in a delicious Caribbean-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional), chopped
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. While sweet potatoes are roasting, heat remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add chopped onion, Scotch bonnet pepper (if using), and garlic to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
6. Add cabbage to the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
7. Once sweet potatoes are done, chop them coarsely and add to the skillet with the cabbage mixture.
8. Stir well to combine and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 spicy Jamaican cabbage recipes! From classic dishes like steamed cabbage with carrots and thyme, to bold stir-fries featuring scotch bonnet peppers, and hearty stews with coconut milk and jerk seasoning, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to add a kick of heat to your meals with these flavorful and easy-to-make recipes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, this collection has got you covered.
