Are you ready to spice up your cooking with a dash of Caribbean flair? Look no further! Jamaican cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and rich cultural heritage. And the best part? You don’t have to be a seasoned cook to create these mouth-watering dishes. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 easy-to-make Jamaican recipes perfect for beginners.
From classic comfort foods like jerk chicken and rice and peas to creative twists like coconut drops and mango chutney, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these easy Jamaican recipes will become fast favorites in no time.
In this article, we’ll explore the rich culinary traditions of Jamaica, from traditional breakfast dishes like cornmeal porridge and ackee and saltfish to hearty stews and soups that warm the soul. We’ll also share some fun and creative twists on classic Jamaican recipes, so you can put your own spin on these flavors.
So grab a pen and paper (or open up your favorite recipe app), and let’s get started on this delicious culinary adventure through Jamaica!
Jamaican Jerk Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this classic jerk chicken recipe, featuring a spice blend that will transport your taste buds to the Caribbean. This dish is perfect for a quick and delicious meal or as an appetizer for a gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (available at most supermarkets)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the jerk mixture.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Jamaican Rice and Peas
Get ready for a flavorful and aromatic Caribbean-inspired side dish that pairs well with your favorite meats or as a standalone meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup split peas (such as kidney or black-eyed)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and chopped (for an extra kick of heat)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak the peas in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the soaked peas and stir well.
5. Add the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water to the saucepan.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Fluff the mixture with a fork and season with salt, pepper, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Jamaican Beef Patties
Satisfy your cravings with these flavorful and flaky beef patties, inspired by the classic Jamaican dish. Perfect for a quick snack or meal, this recipe brings together the comfort of beef and spices in a crispy pastry.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
• 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
• Chopped scallions and cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and curry powder. Mix well.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon the beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg and fold other half over filling.
6. Seal edges by pressing or crimping.
7. Place patties on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush tops with remaining egg wash.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Escovitch Fish
Escovitch fish is a popular Jamaican dish that combines the flavors of sweet peppers, onions, and spices with crispy fried fish. This recipe yields a mouth-watering main course that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of firm white fish (such as snapper or tilapia), cut into bite-sized portions
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, chopped
– 1 cup sweet pepper slices (any color)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the fish pieces until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
3. In the same pan, sauté the onions and Scotch bonnet peppers until they start to caramelize.
4. Add the sweet pepper slices, garlic, ginger, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
5. Place the fried fish pieces in the pan and spoon some of the Escovitch sauce over them.
6. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Simple Jamaican Curry Goat
This classic Caribbean dish is a staple of Jamaican cuisine, and with this simple recipe, you can recreate the flavors of the islands in no time. With tender goat meat cooked in a rich and aromatic curry sauce, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound goat meat (shoulder or shank), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add goat meat, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add coconut milk, beef broth, and tomato paste. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 hours or until goat meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Jamaican Callaloo with Saltfish
Callaloo, a popular Jamaican dish, combines the flavors of leafy greens, salted fish, and spices. This recipe is a simplified take on the classic breakfast staple, perfect for a quick and satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch callaloo (amaranth or pigweed leaves)
– 1/2 cup saltfish (dried and salted cod), flaked
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Wash the callaloo leaves and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the flaked saltfish to the skillet and stir well. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the fish is lightly browned.
4. Add the callaloo leaves to the skillet and stir well. Season with black pepper and salt to taste.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10-15 minutes or until the greens have wilted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Jamaican Festival Dumplings
Get ready to experience the flavors of Jamaica with these soft and fluffy dumplings, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add oil, coconut milk, egg, ginger, thyme, and nutmeg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Gradually add water as needed to achieve a soft but not sticky consistency.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and shape each into a ball.
6. Cook dumplings in boiling water for 15-20 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this classic dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. This brown stew chicken recipe is a staple in many Jamaican households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– 1 tsp ground thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups brown stew sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add chicken, allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes or until chicken is browned on all sides.
4. Pour in brown stew sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until chicken is tender.
6. Serve hot with rice, roti, or your favorite side dish.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quick Jamaican Coconut Drops
Add a touch of tropical flavor to your snack time with these sweet and nutty coconut drops, inspired by the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together oats, coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, applesauce, and lime juice.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jamaican Steamed Cabbage
This recipe brings a touch of Jamaican flair to your table with tender, slightly sweetened cabbage cooked to perfection. Perfect as a side dish or added to rice and peas for a filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional), chopped
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
5. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and steam for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge
A warm and comforting breakfast or snack option, this traditional Jamaican dish is made with simple ingredients and requires minimal effort. Perfect for a quick morning pick-me-up!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– Honey or sugar to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cornmeal and 2 cups of water.
2. Whisk until the cornmeal is well combined and there are no lumps.
3. Add salt, vegetable oil, and chopped scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Whisk again to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the porridge thickens slightly.
6. Serve hot with a drizzle of honey or sugar to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Jamaican Ackee and Saltfish
This classic Jamaican dish is a staple breakfast or brunch option, combining the creamy texture of ackee fruit with the savory flavor of salted cod fish. With its rich history and cultural significance, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ackee fruit (canned or fresh)
– 1/2 cup salted cod fish (dried and flaked)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add flaked cod fish and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
4. Drain liquid from ackee fruit and add it to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Jamaican Banana Bread
Warm up with a moist and flavorful loaf that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the warmth of Caribbean spices.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Jamaican Oxtail Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Jamaican cuisine, perfect for a cold winter’s night. Tender oxtail is slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful broth with aromatics and spices, resulting in a fall-apart texture that’s simply divine.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs oxtail
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the oxtail on all sides, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) to pot; cook until onion is softened.
4. Add cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper; stir to combine.
5. Add broth, water, and tomato paste; stir to combine.
6. Return oxtail to pot; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Easy Jamaican Pumpkin Soup
Warm up with a deliciously comforting bowl of Jamaican pumpkin soup, infused with the bold flavors of allspice and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, allspice, and thyme; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add pumpkin, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream, if using. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jamaican Rum Cake
This classic Jamaican Rum Cake recipe is a sweet and indulgent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or just because. Moist and flavorful, with the warmth of rum and spices, it’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp dark rum (optional)
– 1 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Stir in rum (if using) and brown sugar.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Quick Jamaican Fried Dumplings
Get a taste of Caribbean flavor with these crispy fried dumplings, perfect as a snack or side dish. These sweet and savory treats are quick to make and sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– Optional: sweet or savory toppings (e.g. sugar, cinnamon, chopped herbs)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small balls (about 1-inch diameter).
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry dumplings for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Jamaican Guinness Punch
A refreshing and rich punch perfect for any occasion, this Jamaican Guinness Punch combines the smoothness of Guinness stout with the sweetness of pineapple and spices. This drink is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle Guinness stout
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of grenadine syrup (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine Guinness stout, pineapple juice, ginger ale, and orange juice.
2. Stir in the simple syrup until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add a splash of grenadine syrup if desired (optional).
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None!
Easy Jamaican Mango Chutney
Add a sweet and tangy twist to your meals with this easy-to-make Jamaican mango chutney, perfect for topping naan bread, grilled meats, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine mango, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, ginger, and cinnamon.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until chutney has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
5. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
This classic Jamaican dessert is a staple at many family gatherings and special occasions. Sweet potatoes are boiled, mashed, and mixed with spices, sugar, and eggs to create a creamy pudding that’s both sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Boil the sweet potatoes until tender, then mash and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add the mashed sweet potatoes and stir to combine.
3. Gradually add in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Beat in the eggs until smooth, then stir in the melted butter.
5. Pour the pudding mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled dessert.
Summary
Discover the vibrant flavors of Jamaica with this collection of 20 easy and delicious recipes perfect for beginners! From classic dishes like Jerk Chicken and Brown Stew Chicken, to sweet treats like Banana Bread and Rum Cake, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the Caribbean. Learn how to make flavorful meals like Jamaican Curry Goat, Escovitch Fish, and Festival Dumplings, as well as comforting desserts like Pumpkin Soup and Sweet Potato Pudding. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to bring a little bit of Jamaica into your kitchen.