Imagine soft shredded cabbage infused with aromatic herbs and spices, carefully simmered to perfection to produce a delicious symphony of flavors. The delectable aroma that wafts from the pot while it simmers on the stove will transport you to Jamaica’s bustling marketplaces and vibrant streets. Whether served as a side dish or as a main course with traditional mainstays like as rice and peas, festival or hard dough bread, Jamaican steamed cabbage is a culinary wonder that has captivated hearts far and wide.
NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS OF CABBAGE
1. It is loaded with minerals, vitamins and antioxidants.
2. It is perfect for weight loss, as it is low in calories and high in fiber.
3. It lowers your risk of developing diabetes.
4. It has anti-inflammatory properties which help with arthritis, swollen limbs and allergies.
5. It regulates your blood pressure, promotes circulation, lowers fat and cholesterol.
6. It protects against cardiovascular diseases and lowers the risk of some cancers.
7. It has powerful oxidants that detoxify your liver and flush out free radicals.
8. It has antiaging properties.
9. It supports brain function, memory, focus by reducing nerve damage and strengthening resistance against Alzheimer’s and dementia.
10. It contains beta carotene which protects against eye disease.
11. Contains keratin, which promotes healthy nails, skin and stimulates hair growth.
12. Contains calcium, which strengthens your teeth and bones.
INGREDIENTS NEEDED FOR JAMAICAN STEAMED CABBAGE
1. Green Cabbage – We will use half in this recipe. You can use the leftover cabbage to make creamy coleslaw.
2. Carrot
3. Tomato
4. Scallion/Green Onion
5. Margarine/Butter
6. Salt
7. Thyme
8. Yellow Onion
9. Green Bell Pepper – You can add the other bell pepper colors if you want it to look more colorful.
HOW TO MAKE JAMAICAN STEAMED CABBAGE
1. Start by washing all your vegetables with vinegar and water.
2. Using a knife, shred your cabbage and remove the core.
3. Peel the carrot and then thinly slice them or shred them.
4. Remove the outer layer of the onion, cut off both ends, then slice thinly.
5. Thinly slice the remaining vegetables, excluding the thyme, and add to your pot.
6. Lastly, add in your thyme stems, salt and margarine.
7. Simmer on medium low to low heat for 45-50 minutes. You can cook for less time if you prefer crunchier cabbage.
8. Taste and adjust the salt as you cook.
VARIATIONS
There are many variations to make Jamaican Steamed Cabbage. While I love the simplicity of this recipe, here are some other ways to change up this dish.
1. More Spices – You can use other flavor profiles such as all purpose seasoning, scotch bonnet pepper, black pepper, or curry powder.
2. Add Protein – Another popular way to make cabbage is with Corned Beef “bully beef” or saltfish
3. Get Creative – You can use this dish to make Jamaican Veggie Loaf or Jamaican Veggie Patty. Both are common street foods that are great on the go.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH JAMAICAN STEAMED CABBAGE?
HOW TO STORE IT
This will last in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
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JAMAICAN STEAMED CABBAGE
Ingredients
- ½ Medium Green Cabbage
- 1 Medium Carrot
- ½ Green Bell Pepper
- ½ Large Tomato
- 1 Green Onion Stalk
- 1 Small Yellow Onion
- 4 Thyme Stems
- 2 Heaping Tablespoons Margarine
- Salt to Taste
Instructions
- Start by washing all your vegetables with vinegar and water.
- Using a knife, shred your cabbage and remove the core.
- Peel the carrot and then thinly slice them or shred them.
- Remove the outer layer of the onion, cut off both ends, then slice thinly.
- Thinly slice the remaining vegetables, excluding the thyme, and add to your pot.
- Lastly, add in your thyme stems, salt and margarine.
- Simmer on medium low to low heat for 45-50 minutes. You can cook for less time if you prefer crunchier cabbage.
- Taste and adjust the salt as you cook.