Steamed Cabbage
Jamaican cuisine is renowned for its exotic flavors and unique style of cooking, which has been influenced by a rich blend of various cultures and traditions. One dish that truly captures the essence of Jamaican cuisine is steamed cabbage. This flavorful dish has been passed down from generation to generation and today it is considered one of the signature dishes of Jamaican cuisine. Jamaican steamed cabbage is a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course, and it is also a vegetarian’s dream.
Cabbage is a commonly used ingredient in Jamaican cuisine and it has a long history of being grown in the country. Today, cabbage is grown in Jamaica all year round, and it is a staple ingredient in many of their dishes. The steamed cabbage recipe is an easy one, which calls for just a few simple ingredients, and it is perfect for those who want to enjoy the unique taste of Jamaican cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen.
To prepare Jamaican steamed cabbage, the first thing you will need is a head of cabbage. It is important that you select a fresh and firm head of cabbage for the best taste and texture. You will also need coconut oil, garlic, onion, thyme, and some salt and pepper to season. You can add additional spices and herbs to suit your taste, but these simple ingredients are all that is needed to create an authentic Jamaican flavor.
To start, you will need to wash and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Then, heat up some coconut oil in a pot or pan and add in the garlic and onion. Allow the garlic and onion to brown for a minute or two before adding in the chopped cabbage. Stir the cabbage around in the pot so that it is evenly coated with the coconut oil, garlic, and onion. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, and then cover the pot with a lid to allow the cabbage to steam.
After about 5-7 minutes, add in some chopped thyme and stir the cabbage around once more. Cover the pot again and allow the cabbage to steam for another 5-7 minutes until it is cooked through but still has a slight crunch. Be sure to keep an eye on the cabbage to ensure that it does not burn or stick to the bottom of the pot.
Once the cabbage is fully cooked, it is ready to be served alongside your favorite main course. Jamaican steamed cabbage pairs perfectly with jerk chicken, curried goat, or even a simple plate of rice and peas. The flavors of the garlic, onion, and thyme combine with the sweetness of the cooked cabbage to create a truly unique and delicious flavor.
In conclusion, Jamaican steamed cabbage is a simple yet delicious side dish that is perfect for anyone looking to try out Jamaican cuisine. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and nutritious dish that is sure to impress your taste buds. So the next time you are in the mood for some exotic flavors, give Jamaican steamed cabbage a try and experience the unique taste of Jamaica.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium sized cabbage
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 medium sized onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of butter (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the cabbage and remove the tough outer leaves. Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core.
- Slice the cabbage into thin strips.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, thyme, scotch bonnet pepper (if using), salt and black pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
- Add the cabbage to the skillet and stir to coat with the seasoning. Add the water and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid.
- Reduce heat to low and allow to steam for 10-15 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and add the butter (if using). Stir well to combine.
- Serve hot with rice and beans or your favorite protein. Enjoy!