Get ready to spice up your meals with the bold and vibrant flavors of Jamaica! Known for its jerk seasoning, coconut milk, and rich history of cultural influences, Jamaican cuisine is a true reflection of the island’s warm and welcoming spirit. Whether you’re looking for hearty stews, flavorful curries, or sweet treats, this collection of 20 spicy Jamaican recipes has got you covered.
From classic dishes like Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa and Oxtail Stew with Butter Beans to creative twists on traditional breakfasts like Ackee and Saltfish Breakfast, there’s something for every palate and occasion. So go ahead, put on your dancing shoes, and let the flavors of Jamaica transport you to a world of warmth, joy, and delicious food!
Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa
This recipe combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with the sweetness of mango to create a mouth-watering dish perfect for any occasion. With its spicy kick and tangy salsa, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup mango chutney
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the jerk mixture.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango chutney, diced mango, red onion, and jalapeño pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve jerk chicken with mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oxtail Stew with Butter Beans
This hearty stew is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. The slow-cooked oxtail and butter beans in a rich, flavorful broth make it a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound oxtail, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup butter beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 bay leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown oxtail pieces, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add butter beans, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return oxtail to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2 1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
7. Remove from heat; let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Discard bay leaves, if using.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Curry Goat with Potatoes
This curry goat recipe is a delicious and comforting meal that combines the tender meat of goat with the rich flavors of Indian spices and the simplicity of roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound goat meat (shoulder or shank), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the goat meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the goat from the pan and set aside. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pan; cook for 1 minute.
5. Return the goat meat to the pan and add the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Roast in the oven for 2-3 hours, or until the goat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Add the cubed potatoes to the pan during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours (including roasting time)
Ackee and Saltfish Breakfast
A traditional Jamaican breakfast dish that combines the sweet flavor of ackee with the savory taste of salted cod fish, served with a side of boiled green bananas or bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked ackee
– 1/2 cup salted cod fish (saltfish), flaked
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 boiled green bananas or bread, sliced
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the flaked saltfish and stir well to combine with the onion.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the saltfish is fully broken down.
5. Stir in the cooked ackee and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve with boiled green bananas or bread, sliced.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Escovitch Fish with Pickled Vegetables
Experience the bold flavors of Caribbean cuisine with this vibrant and tangy dish. Escovitch fish is a popular Jamaican recipe that combines the richness of fried fish with the zing of pickled vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into chunks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Pickled vegetable mixture (see below)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Pickled Vegetable Mixture:
– 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 1 cup thinly sliced bell peppers
– 1 cup thinly sliced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Dredge fish chunks in flour mixture (flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper). Fry in hot oil until golden brown.
2. In a separate pan, combine pickled vegetable mixture ingredients. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Serve fried fish with pickled vegetable mixture spooned on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Patty with Flaky Crust
Experience the authentic flavors of Jamaica with these homemade patty recipes, featuring a flaky crust and savory fillings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– Filling of your choice (e.g., beef, chicken, or vegetables)
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until dough comes together in a ball.
5. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes.
6. Roll out dough to desired thickness (about 1/8 inch).
7. Cut into squares or circles, depending on your patty shape preference.
8. Place filling of choice in center of each square or circle.
9. Fold and press edges together to seal the patty.
10. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rice and Peas with Coconut Milk
This classic Caribbean dish is a flavorful and comforting side that’s perfect for any meal. With the rich creaminess of coconut milk, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. While the rice cooks, heat the oil in a small skillet over medium-high. Add the peas and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re thawed and heated through (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the coconut milk and peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Callaloo with Salted Cod
This traditional Caribbean recipe combines the earthy flavor of callaloo (amaranth) with the savory goodness of salted cod, creating a comforting and filling dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch callaloo leaves
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup salted cod, rinsed and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional), chopped
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the callaloo leaves and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine the water, salted cod, onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the callaloo leaves to the pot and stir well.
4. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the greens are tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Festival (Sweet Fried Dumplings)
Festival Sweet Fried Dumplings Recipe
Festivals are a classic Chinese dessert that combines crispy fried dough with a sweet and sticky syrup. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add in vegetable oil to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a small egg.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the dumplings until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes per side.
5. Remove the dumplings from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, water, and cornstarch. Bring to a boil in a saucepan over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes or until syrup thickens.
7. Toss the fried dumplings with the sweet syrup and soy sauce (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brown Stew Chicken with Gravy
This hearty recipe combines tender chicken, rich brown gravy, and a medley of vegetables for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, peas)
– 1 cup brown gravy mix
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
3. Add the chicken thighs and brown gravy mix, stirring well to combine.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jamaican Sorrel Drink with Ginger
A refreshing and invigorating drink perfect for hot days or as a soothing pick-me-up, Jamaican Sorrel Drink with Ginger combines the tartness of sorrel with the spicy warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sorrel flowers (dried or fresh)
– 2 cups water
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sorrel flowers and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
2. Add the sliced ginger to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the mixture has reduced slightly.
3. Strain the drink into a large pitcher or individual cups. Discard the solids.
4. If desired, add honey to taste and stir well.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a slice of ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Cabbage with Carrots
This simple and healthy recipe brings out the natural sweetness of cabbage and carrots, making it a great side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and quartered
– 4-6 baby carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons of water
– Salt to taste (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
3. Place the cabbage quarters and carrot pieces in a steamer basket that fits over the boiling water.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste (if desired).
6. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bammy (Cassava Flatbread)
Discover the flavors of West Africa with this simple recipe for Bammy, a crispy and delicious flatbread made from cassava flour. Perfect as a side dish or used as a wrap.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cassava flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cassava flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in the warm water, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Brush the surface with vegetable oil.
7. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
8. Cook the Bammy for 30-45 seconds on each side, until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per batch
Gizzada (Coconut Tart)
A classic Bahamian dessert, Gizzada is a rich and creamy coconut tart that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the simplicity of a pastry crust with the indulgent flavor of sweetened condensed milk and toasted coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 2 large eggs
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Bake crust for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, eggs, and salt. Mix until well combined.
6. Pour mixture into baked tart crust and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Jamaican Rum Cake
Moist, flavorful, and infused with the warmth of rum, this Jamaican Rum Cake is a perfect treat for any occasion. With its rich aroma and deep flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark rum (optional)
– Raisins and nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and butter until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. If using rum, stir it in at this point.
7. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pepper Pot Soup with Spinach
This classic soup recipe combines the warmth of peppers and spices with the nutritious boost of spinach, making it a perfect comfort food for any meal. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, this Pepper Pot Soup with Spinach is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, bell peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in spinach and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Run Down (Fish in Coconut Sauce)
A flavorful and aromatic dish from Trinidad and Tobago, Run Down is a popular seafood recipe that combines the rich taste of coconut milk with the freshness of fish. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of fish (such as tilapia, snapper, or catfish), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can of full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the fish pieces and cook until they are opaque and flake easily with a fork.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Ginger Beer
Experience the invigorating flavor of Jamaica with this simple recipe for homemade ginger beer. Perfect for hot summer days or as a unique twist on traditional cocktails, this brew is sure to quench your thirst.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Carbonated water (to carbonate, see instructions below)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine grated ginger, water, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher.
5. Carbonate the brew by adding carbonated water (see instructions below).
Carbonation:
To carbonate, add 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup yeast to 1 gallon water. Stir until yeast dissolves. Add mixture to the ginger beer base and stir well.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cornmeal Porridge with Nutmeg
Start your day off right with this simple and comforting porridge recipe that combines the warmth of cornmeal with the sweetness of nutmeg. Perfect for a cozy morning pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the porridge thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the salt, nutmeg, and butter until melted.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Plantains with Cinnamon
Fried plantains are a popular Latin American dessert that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe adds a warm and comforting twist by sprinkling cinnamon on top.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 ripe plantains
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch rounds.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
3. Carefully place 2-3 plantain slices into the oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown.
4. Remove the fried plantains from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Sprinkle the fried plantains with salt and cinnamon immediately after frying.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 mouth-watering Jamaican recipes! From classic dishes like Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa and Oxtail Stew with Butter Beans, to sweet treats like Jamaican Rum Cake and Gizzada (Coconut Tart), there’s something for everyone. Discover the bold flavors of Jamaica’s cuisine, including Curry Goat with Potatoes, Ackee and Saltfish Breakfast, and many more. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty stew or a sweet dessert, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, grab some spices, and get cooking!