Growing up, I always loved the rich flavors of Caribbean cuisine, and one dish that stood out to me was Jamaican steamed cabbage.
The combination of tender cabbage, vibrant seasonings, and a hint of spice makes it the perfect side dish to complement any meal.
Whether paired with jerk chicken, fried plantains, or rice Jamaican Cabbage Recipe: A Flavorful Caribbean Side Dish
and peas, this dish brings warmth and comfort with every bite. This Jamaican delicacy recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
What is Jamaican Cabbage?
Jamaican cabbage is a traditional Caribbean dish that features steamed cabbage infused with a blend of seasonings, vegetables, and often a touch of heat from Scotch bonnet peppers.
This dish is known for its savory, slightly spicy, and aromatic flavors, making it a staple in Jamaican households. It is a versatile side dish that can be served alongside various meats or enjoyed on its own.
How Do You Make Jamaican Steamed Cabbage?
Making Jamaican steamed cabbage is simple and requires only a handful of ingredients. First, fresh cabbage is sliced into thin strips and combined with other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and onions.
The mixture is then seasoned with thyme, garlic, allspice, and Scotch bonnet pepper for that signature kick. Everything is sautéed and lightly steamed until the cabbage is tender yet still retains a slight crunch.
What Kind of Cabbage Should You Use?
For the best results, use green cabbage for this dish. It holds up well to steaming and absorbs the flavors beautifully.
If you prefer a slightly different texture or flavor, you can also use Savoy cabbage, which has a more tender and crinkled leaf structure.
What Meat Goes Well With Steamed Cabbage?
Jamaican steamed cabbage pairs wonderfully with a variety of meats. Some popular options include:
- Jerk Chicken
- Curry Goat
- Oxtail Stew
- Fried or Steamed Fish
- Brown Stew Chicken
- Saltfish (Salted Codfish)
Saltfish (Salted Codfish)How Do You Serve This Steamed Cabbage?
Jamaican steamed cabbage is best served hot as a side dish. It pairs beautifully with rice and peas, fried plantains, or even dumplings.
You can also enjoy it with a slice of cornbread for a hearty meal.
Jamaican Cabbage Recipe: A Flavorful Caribbean Side Dish
Course: Side DishCuisine: Jamaican, CaribbeanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes15
minutes120
kcalIngredients
1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
1 medium carrot, julienned
1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional for spice)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh thyme)
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
Directions
- Heat oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Stir in the Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, allspice, and paprika, cooking for another minute.
- Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, stirring well to combine.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and cover the pan, allowing the cabbage to steam for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the lid and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing any excess liquid to evaporate.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a more authentic taste, use coconut oil instead of olive oil.
- If you prefer a milder version, omit the Scotch bonnet pepper.
- Add cooked shrimp or saltfish to turn this side dish into a main meal.
Storage and Warming Leftovers
Leftover Jamaican steamed cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
Nutritional Information for Jamaican Cabbage
Below is the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (based on a four-serving recipe).
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal | 6% |
| Carbohydrates | 14g | 5% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Total Fat | 6g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
| Sugar | 6g | – |
| Sodium | 280mg | 12% |
| Potassium | 420mg | 9% |
| Vitamin A | 75% DV | – |
| Vitamin C | 85% DV | – |
| Calcium | 6% DV | – |
| Iron | 7% DV | – |
Health Benefits of Jamaican Cabbage
✅ Low in Calories – A healthy, light side dish that won’t weigh you down.
✅ Rich in Fiber – Supports digestion and promotes gut health.
✅ Loaded with Vitamins – High in Vitamin A and C for immunity and skin health.
✅ Heart-Healthy Fats – A small amount of olive or coconut oil provides good fats.
This Jamaican delicacy recipe is a nutritious and flavorful way to add more vegetables to your meals!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do Jamaicans eat cabbage?
Jamaicans eat cabbage because it is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be used in various dishes. It is affordable, widely available, and can be cooked in many ways, making it a staple in Jamaican cuisine.
Q: Can you eat Jamaican food on keto?
Yes, you can eat Jamaican food on a keto diet by choosing dishes that are low in carbohydrates. Dishes like jerk chicken, steamed fish, and sautéed callaloo are good options, but avoid starchy sides like rice and peas or plantains.
Q: Can I eat cabbage on a keto diet?
Yes, cabbage is keto-friendly due to its low carbohydrate content. It can be a great addition to your diet for filling meals without adding many carbs.
Q: Is Jamaican cabbage keto?
Yes, Jamaican cabbage, typically sautéed with minimal additional ingredients like onions and carrots, can be considered keto-friendly. It maintains its low carb status and can be paired with high-fat additions to fit a keto diet.
Q: Is cabbage good for weight loss?
Cabbage is excellent for weight loss because it is low in calories but high in fiber, which helps in creating a feeling of fullness. It is also nutrient-dense, providing essential vitamins and minerals while being low in fat.