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Jamaican Steamed Cabbage

Jamaican Steamed Cabbage
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Jamaican Steamed Cabbage is a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful Caribbean side dish that blends tender green cabbage with sweet bell peppers, carrots, fresh thyme, garlic, onion, and a hint of heat from scotch bonnet peppers. Steamed to maintain its crisp texture and bright color, this quick and nutritious recipe is perfect as a side for seafood, chicken, pork, or as a standalone vegan dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 medium green cabbage, finely chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and julienned
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 whole scotch bonnet pepper (handle with care)
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 3–4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste

Oils and Liquids

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
  • ¼ cup water or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Rinse and finely chop the green cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Peel and julienne the carrots, dice the green bell pepper, finely chop the garlic and onions, and set the whole scotch bonnet pepper aside, handling carefully to avoid releasing too much heat.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable or coconut oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and fresh thyme sprigs. Stir frequently and sauté until the onions become translucent and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Peppers and Cabbage: Add the diced green bell peppers, julienned carrots, and chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir to combine, coating all vegetables with the scented oil and herbs.
  4. Add Water and Steam: Pour in approximately ¼ cup of water or vegetable broth. Nestle the whole scotch bonnet pepper into the vegetable mixture without breaking it to infuse a subtle heat. Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and steam gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still vibrant and slightly crunchy.
  5. Season and Serve: Remove the whole scotch bonnet pepper carefully to prevent excessive heat. Season the steamed cabbage generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot as a colorful, flavorful side dish.

Notes

  • Chop vegetables evenly for uniform cooking and appealing presentation.
  • Keep the scotch bonnet pepper whole or substitute with milder peppers if you prefer less heat.
  • Do not overcook the cabbage; steam just until tender-crisp to retain texture and nutrients.
  • Fresh thyme is essential for authentic Caribbean flavor.
  • For extra savory depth, use vegetable broth instead of water when steaming.

Nutrition

Keywords: Jamaican, steamed cabbage, Caribbean side dish, healthy, vegan, gluten free, scotch bonnet, thyme, bell peppers

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/jamaican-steamed-cabbage/