Jamaican Cabbage

How to Make Jamaican Cabbage

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation of this delightful Jamaican Cabbage dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Slice the Cabbage: Begin by removing the outer leaves of the cabbage. Slice the cabbage in half and then thinly slice each half into shreds.
2. Julienne the Carrots: Peel the carrots and cut them into thin matchstick-like pieces. This will ensure they cook evenly with the cabbage.
3. Slice the Peppers and Onions: Cut the red and yellow bell peppers into thin strips and slice the onion into rings.
4. Chop the Green Onions and Garlic: Finely chop the green onions and mince the garlic cloves.
5. Handle the Scotch Bonnet: Carefully chop the Scotch bonnet pepper. Be cautious as these peppers are very spicy. Use gloves if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the Onions and Garlic: Sauté the onions and garlic until they become fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the Bell Peppers and Carrots: Stir in the sliced bell peppers and julienned carrots. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
4. Incorporate the Cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the pan, stirring well to combine with the other vegetables.

Step 3: Season the Cabbage

1. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in the thyme, allspice, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss the cabbage mixture to evenly distribute the spices.
2. Optional Additions: If desired, add the cooked bacon or sausage, kidney beans, and brown sugar at this stage.
3. Stir in Soy Sauce and Vinegar: Drizzle the soy sauce and apple cider vinegar over the cabbage, stirring well to combine.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

1. Cover and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the cabbage cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should be tender but not mushy.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste preference.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Green Onions and Scotch Bonnet: Once cooked, sprinkle the chopped green onions and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) over the top of the cabbage.
2. Serve: Transfer the Jamaican Cabbage to a serving dish and enjoy it as a side or main dish.