Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 sizzling spicy Jamaican cabbage recipes! Jamaica is renowned for its bold flavors, vibrant rhythms, and mouth-watering dishes that combine the island’s rich cultural heritage with a dash of spice. One such staple ingredient is cabbage – a humble vegetable elevated to new heights through the clever use of spices, herbs, and creative cooking techniques. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across Jamaica, exploring a diverse range of recipes that showcase the versatility of cabbage in both traditional and modern dishes. From hearty stews to quick stir-fries, these 20 spicy Jamaican cabbage recipes are sure to delight flavor lovers everywhere.
Jamaican Steamed Cabbage with Carrots and Thyme
This classic Caribbean side dish is a flavorful and nutritious accompaniment to your favorite meats or as a vegetarian main course. With the sweetness of carrots, the pungency of thyme, and the tenderness of cabbage, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large steamer basket, combine the chopped cabbage and sliced carrots.
2. Drizzle the vegetable oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Place the thyme sprigs on top of the vegetables.
4. Steam over boiling water for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the carrots are cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk-Seasoned Cabbage Stir-Fry
A flavorful twist on traditional cabbage stir-fries, this recipe combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with crisp, tender cabbage. Perfect as a side dish or main course, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
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 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cabbage and jerk seasoning; stir to combine.
5. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Milk Braised Jamaican Cabbage
This creamy and flavorful side dish is a twist on traditional cabbage recipes, with the added richness of coconut milk and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) 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 and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt and black pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let braise for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Jamaican Cabbage and Saltfish
A classic Caribbean dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This recipe combines the tender sweetness of cabbage with the savory goodness of salted cod, all wrapped up in a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup saltfish (dried and salted cod), soaked overnight and flaked
– 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet peppers. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cabbage and saltfish. Stir well to combine.
4. Sprinkle curry powder and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curried Jamaican Cabbage with Potatoes
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this vibrant and aromatic dish that combines tender cabbage, potatoes, and a hint of curry powder. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the curry powder and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the chopped cabbage and diced potatoes, stirring to combine.
6. Pour in the water and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Callaloo Medley
A flavorful and nutritious Caribbean-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of cabbage with the earthy taste of callaloo. This medley is a perfect side dish or main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, chopped
– 1 bunch of callaloo leaves (or spinach), chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the cabbage, callaloo leaves, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Stir well.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and soy sauce (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Garlic Butter Jamaican Cabbage Sauté
This Caribbean-inspired dish combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with the pungency of garlic and the richness of butter, all infused with the warm flavors of Jamaica.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon Jamaican curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced cabbage and curry powder to the pan. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Plantain Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Jamaican cuisine, combining the natural sweetness of plantains with the savory flavor of cabbage. It’s a comforting and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized plantain, peeled and chopped
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 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 chopped plantain, cabbage, allspice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the plantain is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Scotch Bonnet Pepper Cabbage Stir-Fry
Elevate your stir-fry game with this bold and flavorful recipe, featuring the spicy kick of Scotch Bonnet peppers. This dish is perfect for those who crave a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 Scotch Bonnet peppers, seeded and chopped (use gloves when handling)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add Scotch Bonnet peppers and garlic; stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add cabbage to the skillet; stir-fry until wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Corned Beef Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of Jamaica with a classic comfort food. Sweet caramelized cabbage, savory corned beef, and aromatic spices come together to create a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 pound corned beef, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cabbage and cook until slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add corned beef, curry powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until corned beef is heated through.
7. Stir in diced tomatoes and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caribbean-Spiced Cabbage and Pumpkin
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean in this hearty and aromatic side dish, where sweet pumpkin meets spicy cabbage. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin, peeled and diced
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Caribbean jerk seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together pumpkin, cabbage, olive oil, jerk seasoning, and cumin until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender and caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Red Peppers in Coconut Sauce
A flavorful and aromatic Caribbean-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of red peppers with the tanginess of cabbage, all wrapped up in a creamy coconut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 large red bell peppers, sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive 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 cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shredded cabbage and sliced red peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the coconut milk, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow-Cooked Jamaican Cabbage with Smoked Turkey
Slow-Cooked Jamaican Cabbage with Smoked Turkey Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of Jamaica with this hearty and aromatic slow-cooked cabbage dish, infused with the smoky goodness of smoked turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound smoked turkey breast or thighs, shredded
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a slow cooker; add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic, curry powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir well.
3. Add chopped cabbage, shredded smoked turkey, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth; stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Jamaican Cabbage and Yam Hash
A traditional Jamaican side dish that combines the sweetness of yams with the crunch of cabbage, this hash is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Caribbean-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and diced
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (for an extra kick)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced yams and cook until they start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the shredded cabbage and stir well to combine with the yam mixture.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional Scotch bonnet pepper (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Pimento-Scented Cabbage and Green Beans
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the sweetness of pimentos with the crunch of green beans and the tanginess of cabbage. This recipe is perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a standalone vegetable medley.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup of fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons of pimento-flavored oil (or regular olive oil with added pimento extract)
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the pimento-flavored oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
3. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the green beans.
4. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Dumplings in Broth
Warm up with a hearty and flavorful dish from the Caribbean! This classic Jamaican recipe combines tender cabbage, soft dumplings, and rich chicken broth for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, shredded
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Optional: chopped scallions and/or grated ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cabbage and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the cooked cabbage, stirring constantly.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
6. Stir in butter and chicken broth.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and/or grated ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tangy Lime and Ginger Cabbage Salad
Tangy Lime and Ginger Cabbage Salad Recipe
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of shredded cabbage with the zesty flavors of lime juice, ginger, and a hint of sweetness from red bell pepper. Perfect for a light and healthy side dish or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, lime juice, grated ginger, and diced red bell pepper.
2. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top of the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Note: You can adjust the amount of lime juice and ginger to your taste. Enjoy!
Jamaican Cabbage and Ackee Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the sweetness of ackee with the crunch of cabbage, all wrapped up in a flavorful Jamaican-inspired stir-fry. Perfect as a side dish or add it to your favorite protein for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ackee, drained and chopped
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers, chopped (for added heat)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in ackee, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until flavors are combined.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Roasted Jamaican Cabbage with Scotch Bonnet Glaze
Transform the humble cabbage into a flavorful and aromatic delight with this Caribbean-inspired recipe. The sweetness of the roasted cabbage pairs perfectly with the spicy kick from the Scotch Bonnet peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 Scotch Bonnet pepper, seeded and chopped (use gloves when handling)
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cabbage wedges with olive oil, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Scotch Bonnet pepper, and allspice until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cabbage mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Jamaican Cabbage and Black-Eyed Peas Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the richness of black-eyed peas with the tanginess of cabbage, all infused with the warm spices of Jamaica.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 cup of black-eyed peas, cooked and drained
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 teaspoon of curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the black-eyed peas and broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 spicy Jamaican cabbage recipes! From classic steamed cabbage with carrots and thyme to bold stir-fries and stews, these flavorful dishes showcase the beauty of Caribbean cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or a hearty main course, there’s something for everyone in this collection. With a range of spices and seasonings, from jerk seasoning to Scotch bonnet peppers, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.