Jamaican Cabbage Recipe (classic steamed cabbage)

Jamaican Cabbage is full of vibrant flavors of the Caribbean. Bursting with a medley of spices, this dish elevates humble cabbage into a culinary delight. Perfect as a side dish or a main dish, it promises a taste of Jamaica’s rich culinary heritage in every savory bite. Jamaican Steamed Cabbage is also a naturally vegan recipe.

What is Jamaican Cabbage?

Jamaican Cabbage is a traditional dish from Jamaica made with shredded cabbage cooked in a flavorful combination of spices, herbs, and often coconut milk.

It’s a popular side dish in Jamaican cuisine, known for its savory and slightly sweet taste profile, often served alongside main dishes like jerk chicken or curry.

Is there a difference between Jamaican Cabbage and Jamaican Steamed Cabbage?

In Jamaican cuisine, “Jamaican Cabbage” and “Jamaican Steamed Cabbage” typically refer to the same dish.

Both terms are used interchangeably to describe shredded cabbage that is cooked with various seasonings, often including onions, garlic, thyme, Scotch bonnet peppers, and sometimes coconut milk. The dish is usually prepared by sautéing or “steaming” the cabbage until it’s tender and infused with the rich flavors of the seasonings.

So, while you might encounter both names, they generally represent the same delightful dish in Jamaican cooking.

What kind of cabbage to use for Jamaican cabbage?

In Jamaican cuisine, you can typically use any variety of cabbage.

However, the most commonly used cabbage is green cabbage due to its availability and affordability. Its sturdy texture holds up well to cooking, and its mild flavor allows it to absorb the delicious seasonings used in Jamaican cooking.

That said, you can experiment with other types of cabbage, such as savoy cabbage or Napa cabbage, to add different textures and flavors to the dish if you prefer. Ultimately, the choice of cabbage comes down to personal preference and availability.

What ingredients go into Jamaican Cabbage

This recipe calls for a set of fresh and nutritious ingredients that will make for a delicious meal.

You will need some sliced cabbage, red bell pepper, and green onion, which adds a nice crunch and texture to the dish. A few cloves of pressed garlic and a red chili pepper will provide a flavorful kick to the recipe. Additionally, you will need some chopped carrots, olive oil, and water to tie everything together.

Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to taste!

How to make Jamaican Steamed Cabbage

To make delicious Jamaican Steamed Cabbage, follow these detailed steps:

1. Heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Once the oil is hot, add in sliced cabbage, carrot, red bell pepper, green onions, and 2 garlic cloves.

3. Stir everything together and cook for around 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften.

4. Next, add in a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

5. Pour in 1/2 cup of water, cover the pot with a lid, and let everything cook for another 10-15 minutes at medium-high heat, or until the cabbage is tender and fully cooked. The cooking time depends a bit on how thinly you have cut your cabbage.

6. Stir the cabbage occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

7. Once the cabbage is fully cooked, remove the pot from the heat and transfer the cabbage to a serving dish.

Can one store leftovers of Jamaican Cabbage?

Yes, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator. Allow the cabbage to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

When reheating, you can gently warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Just keep in mind that reheating too many times can affect the texture and flavor, so it’s best to reheat only what you plan to eat to maintain its delicious taste.

What to serve with Jamaican Cabbage?

Jamaican Cabbage pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, complementing their flavors with its savory and slightly sweet taste. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside Jamaican Cabbage:

1. Jerk Chicken: The bold and spicy flavors of jerk chicken perfectly balanced the milder tones.

2. Jamaican Rice and Peas: This classic Caribbean dish of rice cooked with coconut milk and kidney beans makes a perfect side.

3. Fried Plantains: The sweet and caramelized flavor of fried plantains provides a delightful contrast to the savory Jamaican Cabbage.

4. Roti: Soft and flaky Caribbean flatbread, such as roti, is perfect for sopping up the flavorful juices of this dish.

Other cabbage recipes to try

• Cabbage Steaks
• Fried Cabbage
• Cabbage Roll Soup
• Cabbage Roll Casserole

If you love this easy Jamaican Steamed Cabbage recipe, let me know in the comments below and on Instagram or Facebook.

Enjoy, Florian.