Jamaican Steamed Cabbage
Jamaican Steamed Cabbage is a simple, flavorful, and healthy dish that brings Caribbean flavors to your table. Made with shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, onions, and garlic, this dish is lightly seasoned and gently steamed to retain its natural crunch and sweetness. It’s commonly served as a side with jerk chicken, rice and peas, or fried plantains but can also be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.This dish is vegan, low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with fiber and vitamins.
Ingredients
½ head of green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
1 medium carrot, julienned or grated
1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), thinly sliced
½ medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small tomato, diced
½ teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
¼ teaspoon allspice (optional, for authentic Jamaican flavor)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon Scotch bonnet pepper or red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon coconut oil (or olive oil)
2 tablespoons water or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon vinegar (white or apple cider, for brightness)
1 green onion, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Prep the Vegetables
Shred the cabbage thinly and julienne the carrot (or grate it for a finer texture).
Slice the bell pepper and onion into thin strips.
Mince the garlic and dice the tomato.
2. Saute the Aromatics
In a large skillet or pot, heat coconut oil over medium heat.
Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and saute for 2 minutes until softened.
Stir in the tomato, thyme, allspice, salt, and black pepper.
3. Steam the Cabbage
Add the cabbage and carrot to the pot. Toss everything together.
Pour in 2 tablespoons of water or vegetable broth to create steam.
Cover the pot and let it steam for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cook until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp (not mushy).
4. Final Touches
Stir in vinegar for a fresh, tangy finish.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with chopped green onions, if using.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Serve warm as a side dish with jerk chicken, rice and peas, plantains, or fish.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving, Approx. 4 Servings)
Calories: 90
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 5g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Sodium: 200mg
Vitamin C: 80% DV
Vitamin A: 40% DV
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and ingredient choices.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: ~20 minutes
Notes & Tips
Make It Spicier: Add more Scotch bonnet pepper, hot sauce, or jerk seasoning.
Make It Sweeter: Add a teaspoon of coconut milk or grated coconut for a subtle sweetness.
Keep It Crunchy: Avoid overcooking—the cabbage should be tender but still crisp.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently.
Serving Ideas: Great as a side dish for jerk chicken, grilled fish, rice and peas, or even roti.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use purple cabbage?
Yes! Purple cabbage adds vibrant color and a slightly earthier taste.
2. Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Try adding shrimp, shredded chicken, or tofu for a protein-packed meal.
3. Can I make this dish oil-free?
Yes, just saute with water or broth instead of oil for a lighter version.
4. What other vegetables can I add?
Try zucchini, corn, or green beans for added variety.
5. Can I freeze Jamaican Steamed Cabbage?
Not recommended—cabbage becomes watery and loses its texture after freezing.
This Jamaican Steamed Cabbage is an easy, delicious, and healthy way to bring the bold flavors of the Caribbean to your kitchen. Whether paired with jerk chicken or enjoyed on its own, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy!