Jamaican Recipes
Browse our collection of Jamaican recipes — 27 dishes with photos, cook times and nutrition. Find your next favourite Jamaican meal.
Brown Stew Chicken
Hey there, foodies! Today, I've got a lip-smacking recipe for you: Brown Stew Chicken. Let's dive in! First off, make sure to squeeze that lime with gusto over the chicken. It's not just for flavor, it's also a good arm workout! One time, I accidentally used lemon instead of lime, and let's just say it was a *zesty* surprise. Now, here's a pro tip for you: when marinating the chicken, don't be shy with those spices. The more, the merrier! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later. Oh, and speaking of marinating, I once left my chicken marinating overnight in the fridge and boy, did it turn out *extra* flavorful. Sometimes, mistakes can lead to delicious discoveries! So, as you're cooking this delightful dish, remember to have fun, experiment with the flavors, and don't forget to dance around the kitchen like nobody's watching. Happy cooking, and enjoy your Brown Stew Chicken!
Callaloo Jamaican Style
Alright folks, let's dive into making this delicious Callaloo Jamaican Style! First off, make sure to cut those kale leaves and stems like a pro, then give them a nice soak in cold water. While you're at it, slice those onions, mince the garlic, and dice the tomatoes - prep is key, people! Now, here comes my little secret: instead of just using regular vegetable oil, try using coconut oil for a subtle tropical twist. It'll take your dish to a whole new level, I promise! Oh, and a little anecdote for you - one time, I accidentally mistook cayenne pepper for paprika in this recipe... Let's just say it was a spicy surprise for everyone at the dinner table! Double check your spices, folks. So, once you've got everything prepped and ready to go, sauté the ingredients together for that perfect blend of flavors. Trust me, the combination of crispy bacon, tender kale, and aromatic spices is a game-changer. Enjoy your Callaloo Jamaican Style, and don't forget to savor every bite - it's a taste of the Caribbean right in your kitchen!
Escovitch Fish
This vibrant take on Jamaican Escovitch Fish stars crisp, golden-red snapper crowned with a bright, tangy vegetable sauce. The fish is first marinated in citrus and seasoned simply before being fried to a perfect crunch, while the sauce—sizzled with garlic, ginger, and bay leaf—brings a punchy, vinegar-kissed acidity that cuts through the richness. It’s a dish where bold flavors and textures collide: the delicate flake of the fish meets the lively snap of the vegetables, all tied together by a sauce that’s both refreshing and deeply savory. Worth making for its lively contrast alone, this dish delivers a taste of the Caribbean with every bite.
Jamaican Curry Shrimp Recipe
Hey there, hungry foodies! Today, I'm sharing with you my Jamaican Curry Shrimp recipe that will make your taste buds dance with joy. So, remember that one time when I accidentally mistook cayenne pepper for paprika in this recipe? Let's just say my taste buds were on fire for days! Lesson learned: always double-check your spice jars, folks! Now, a little tip for you: to really amp up the flavor, try marinating the shrimp in the curry powder and seasoning for a bit longer, like 30 minutes. Trust me, it makes a world of difference! Alright, let's get cooking! While your shrimp is marinating, chop up those veggies and get them sizzling in the skillet. And don't forget to wear gloves when handling that scotch bonnet pepper unless you want a spicy surprise later on! Once everything is cooked to perfection, pour in the unsweetened coconut milk for a creamy finish that ties all the flavors together. Serve it up hot and enjoy the taste of the Caribbean right in your own kitchen. Cheers to delicious mishaps and flavorful adventures in cooking!
Callaloo and SaltFish
Callaloo and Saltfish is a vibrant Caribbean staple, where tender salted cod meets earthy callaloo greens in a rich, savory broth. The dish balances bold, briny notes from the fish with a subtle heat from Scotch bonnet peppers, all layered over a smoky, bacon-infused base. A touch of coconut milk adds creaminess, while the greens lend a hearty texture that soaks up every bit of flavor. Worth the effort for its deep, layered taste and the way it transports you straight to the islands with every bite.
Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge
Hey there, hungry folks! Today, I'm gonna show you how to make a delicious pot of Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge that will warm your soul. Ingredients: - Water - Coconut Milk - Fine Yellow Cornmeal - Vanilla Extract - Ground Cinnamon - Ground Nutmeg - Ground Allspice - Sweetened Condensed Milk First off, let me tell you about the time I accidentally mistook salt for sugar in a recipe. Let's just say, salty cookies are not a hit with the kids! So, always double-check your ingredients, my friends. Now, here's a pro tip for you: to make your porridge extra creamy, let it simmer for a bit longer on low heat. This will really help all the flavors meld together perfectly. So, follow the original instructions, but don't forget to give the porridge a little extra love and attention. And remember, cooking is all about having fun and enjoying the process. So go ahead, whip up a batch of this Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge, and treat yourself to a taste of the Caribbean!
Jamaican Curry Goat
Alright folks, today I'm gonna teach you how to make my famous Jamaican Curry Goat. Trust me, this dish is a game-changer! And hey, don't worry if you're not used to cooking goat meat, I'll guide you through it. First off, a little personal story: the first time I made this curry goat, I accidentally doubled the amount of allspice. Let's just say, my friends still talk about that "extra spiced" version to this day! Now, here's a unique tip for you: before adding the goat meat to the pressure cooker, quickly sear it in a hot pan with a bit of oil. This will lock in the juices and give your curry an extra depth of flavor. You can thank me later! So, grab your ingredients and your pressure cooker. Follow the steps, and in no time, you'll be enjoying a taste of the Caribbean right in your own kitchen. And remember, cooking is all about having fun and experimenting, so don't be afraid to get creative! Now go ahead, give this recipe a try, and get ready to impress your taste buds! Enjoy!
Caribbean Tamarind balls
These vibrant Caribbean Tamarind Balls deliver a bold punch of sweet-tart tamarind balanced by a generous coating of sugar, offering a chewy texture with each bite. The concentrated tamarind pulp brings a deep, fruity tang that’s both refreshing and addictive, while the sugar dusting adds a delicate crunch to contrast the soft center. Simple to make yet deeply satisfying, these bite-sized treats capture the essence of island flavors in a portable, shelf-stable form. Perfect for snacking or sharing, they’re a bright, tangy escape in every little ball.
Corned Beef and Cabbage – Jamaican Style
Alright folks, let's talk about my Jamaican twist on Corned Beef and Cabbage! Now, here's a little secret that happened to me once – I accidentally put way too much thyme in this dish and ended up with a cabbage stew that tasted like a forest floor. Lesson learned: always double-check your measurements, especially when you're feeling extra "spicy" in the kitchen! Now, a pro tip for you all: if you want to add a kick to this recipe, try tossing in some Scotch bonnet peppers for some fiery heat. Just be careful, these little guys are no joke – don't say I didn't warn you! So, heat up that olive oil in a skillet and get those onions and green peppers sizzling. And hey, don't forget to dance a little to some reggae music while you're at it – cooking should be fun, right? Once you've added the cabbage and let it soften, mix in that corned beef and let the flavors mingle. Finish off with a dollop of tomato ketchup for that extra zing. Voilà, a taste of Jamaica right in your kitchen! Enjoy, mon!
Grape Nut Ice Cream
This nostalgic ice cream reimagines the classic cereal-to-milk ratio in frozen form, blending ultra-creamy vanilla base with the deep, toasty crunch of Grape Nuts. The cereal’s caramelized nuttiness—enhanced by a quick dry-toast before folding in—cuts through the sweetness with a satisfying bite, while the velvety texture melts effortlessly on the tongue. It’s a playful twist on childhood flavors, elevated just enough to feel like a grown-up indulgence. Worth the effort for anyone craving a dessert that’s equal parts comforting and unexpectedly sophisticated.
Jamaican Banana Fritters
Golden, crisp-edged fritters packed with sweet, mashed bananas and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg deliver a taste of the Caribbean in every bite. The exterior crackles with a delicate crunch, giving way to a tender, custard-like center that’s rich with caramelized banana flavor. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey elevates their natural sweetness, making them irresistible as a snack or dessert. Simple to make yet deeply satisfying, these fritters are worth the effort for their vibrant, sun-soaked charm.
Jamaican Beef Patties
Alright, folks, let's talk about Jamaican Beef Patties! Get ready for a flavor explosion in your mouth with this spicy minced beef wrapped in a delicious golden crust. Trust me, it's a party in your mouth! Now, as you're making the pastry dough with flour, salt, and turmeric, here's a little tip from me: don't overwork the dough! I once got so carried away with kneading that my patties turned out tough as hockey pucks. Learn from my mistake and just mix until it comes together. And speaking of mistakes, let me tell you about the time I accidentally used cinnamon instead of allspice. Let's just say it was not a taste sensation. So, always double-check your spices, folks! As you're rubbing in the shortening, remember to keep those small pieces intact. It's like making a flaky crust masterpiece! And when you're frying the patties, don't overcrowd the pan. Give them some space to crisp up nicely. So, there you have it, a little piece of Jamaica in every bite. Enjoy making these patties, and remember, a little spice makes everything nice!
Jamaican Boiled Dumplings
Jamaican boiled dumplings are simple, pillowy rounds of dough that deliver a delicate chew and a subtle saltiness, making them the perfect vessel for soaking up rich sauces. Made with just flour, salt, and water, the dough comes together effortlessly, yielding a tender yet sturdy texture that holds its shape in simmering water. Their understated flavor lets them play a supporting role in any meal, whether alongside jerk chicken or a hearty stew. Worth making for their versatility alone, these dumplings bring a taste of the Caribbean to the table with minimal effort.
Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe
Alright, folks, let's talk about my Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe! Get ready for a flavorful adventure with this dish that will transport you straight to the streets of Jamaica. Ingredients: - Chicken Thighs - Curry Powder - All-purpose Seasoning - Onion - Spring Onions - Green Pepper - Garlic - Scotch Bonnet - Thyme - Olive Oil Instructions: 1. Heat some olive oil in a Dutch oven and add the chopped onion, garlic, and spring onions. Sauté until fragrant. 2. Toss in the chicken thighs and brown them on all sides. 3. Sprinkle in the curry powder, all-purpose seasoning, thyme, and diced green pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken. 4. Add in the Scotch Bonnet pepper (careful, it's spicy!) for that authentic Jamaican heat. 5. Cover and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together. Anecdote: One time, I mistook Scotch Bonnet peppers for bell peppers and ended up with a fiery dish that had my guests reaching for the water—lesson learned! Pro tip: To tame the heat of Scotch Bonnet peppers, you can remove the seeds and membranes before adding them to the dish. So, get your taste buds ready for a spicy, aromatic journey with my Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe! Enjoy!
Jamaican Festival (Sweet Dumpling)
Golden, crispy on the outside and tender within, Jamaican Festival is a beloved sweet dumpling that captures the vibrant spirit of the island. Made with a simple dough of flour, sugar, and warm spices, it’s lightly sweetened with vanilla and milk for a subtle richness. When fried to a deep golden hue, each bite delivers a satisfying crunch that gives way to a soft, pillowy center. Perfect alongside savory dishes or on its own, this classic treat is worth the effort for its irresistible texture and nostalgic flavor.
Jamaican Fried Dumplings
Golden, pillowy Jamaican fried dumplings are a beloved Caribbean staple—crisp on the outside, tender and slightly bready within, with a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with a dusting of sugar or a savory dip. The dough, lightened with baking powder, yields a delicate texture that’s best achieved by letting it rest briefly before frying, ensuring each bite is airy and just the right amount of crunch. Whether served as a snack, breakfast side, or accompaniment to spicy stews, these dumplings deliver a taste of Jamaica’s vibrant street food culture in every bite.
Jamaican Instant Pot Rice and Beans
Ahoy there, food lovers! Today, I'm sharing with you my version of Jamaican Instant Pot Rice and Beans. This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make, perfect for those busy days when you still want a taste of the islands. So, let's get started! Set your Instant Pot to "Sauté" and heat up some olive oil. Fun fact: once I forgot to add the oil at this step and ended up with rice stuck to the pot - not my finest moment in the kitchen! Now, sauté your onion until softened, then add garlic and spring onions for an extra kick of flavor. Pro tip: if you want to add some heat, a scotch bonnet pepper works wonders in this dish! Next, add the rice, coconut milk, water, salt, allspice, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let the Instant Pot work its magic. Once it's done cooking, serve up this creamy, savory goodness and transport your taste buds to the sunny beaches of Jamaica. Enjoy, me hearties!
Jamaican Pepper Shrimp
Ahoy mateys! Today I'm gonna share with you my recipe for Jamaican Pepper Shrimp, a dish that will transport you straight to the sunny beaches of Jamaica. So, grab your shrimp, Scotch Bonnet, All-purpose Seasoning, Ground Annatto, Allspice, Shrimp Stock, Onion, Garlic, White Vinegar, and Thyme. In a medium bowl, mix the shrimp with all the spices and let it marinate for 10 minutes. Now, here's a little tip from me: make sure not to touch your face after handling Scotch Bonnet peppers unless you want to feel like a fire-breathing dragon for the next hour. Trust me, I learned this the hard way! Next, heat up your pan and get that shrimp sizzling. Add in the onion, garlic, and thyme for that extra flavor kick. Oh, and don't forget to have a bottle of cold beer on standby to cool down your taste buds in case things get too hot to handle. Cover the pan and let the shrimp cook until they turn a beautiful bright orange. And voilà, you've got yourself a taste of the Caribbean right in your kitchen. Enjoy your Jamaican Pepper Shrimp, me hearties!
Jamaican Rice and Peas
Alright, folks, let me tell you about my Jamaican Rice and Peas recipe. One time, I accidentally used coconut cream instead of coconut milk - let's just say the result was a bit too rich! But hey, you live and you learn in the kitchen, right? Here's a tip for you: if you can't handle too much heat, remember to deseed the Scotch bonnet pepper before adding it to the pot. Trust me, you don't want to set your mouth on fire by mistake! Now, let's get cooking! In a Dutch oven, combine rice, coconut milk (not cream, remember!), kidney beans, water, kosher salt, allspice, and black pepper. Oh, and don't forget to lay those green onions, thyme, and Scotch bonnet pepper on top for that authentic flavor kick. Bring the mixture to a boil and let those tropical aromas fill your kitchen. Enjoy the creamy goodness of this Jamaican classic - it's like a mini vacation in every bite!
Jamaican Spice Bun Recipe
This rich, spiced Jamaican bun delivers a bold yet balanced flavor profile, with warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice layered over chewy dried fruit soaked in dark beer. The dense, slightly sticky crumb offers a satisfying bite, while a glossy honey glaze adds a touch of sweetness to the finish. Perfect with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, it’s a portable taste of the Caribbean—easy to make yet deeply satisfying.
Jamaican Steamed Cabbage
Ahoy there, foodies! Today I'm sharing with you my version of Jamaican Steamed Cabbage. Trust me, this dish is not only delicious but also super easy to make. One time, I mistakenly added way too much Scotch Bonnet pepper to this recipe, thinking it would give it an extra kick. Let's just say, my taste buds were on fire for days! Lesson learned: always be careful with those spicy peppers, they can pack a punch! Pro tip: To add a little sweetness to this dish, try adding a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking. It will take the flavors to a whole new level, I promise! So, chop up some cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and all the other goodies, throw them in a pan, and let the magic happen. And remember, don't forget to remove those pesky thyme stalks before serving - nobody wants to bite into a woody stem! Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite of this Jamaican Steamed Cabbage - it's like a tropical party in your mouth!
Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding is a velvety, spiced dessert where tender sweet potatoes meld with rich coconut milk and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Raisins plump with rum add bursts of sweetness and depth, creating a texture that’s both creamy and slightly dense, like a cross between a custard and a cake. This dish delivers the bold, tropical flavors of the Caribbean in every bite, making it a comforting yet exotic treat worth savoring.
Jerk chicken with rice & peas
Alright, folks, let's talk about my famous Jerk Chicken with Rice & Peas recipe. Trust me, it's a flavor explosion you won't forget! Now, I once made the mistake of adding way too many scotch bonnet peppers to the marinade. Let's just say, my guests were breathing fire that night! Lesson learned: don't go overboard with the spicy stuff unless you want to see your friends sweat. Here's a pro tip for you: if your jerk marinade is having a tough time blending in the food processor, just keep stirring and trying. It will come together eventually. And remember, don't add water – you want that thick paste consistency for maximum flavor. Oh, and don't forget to taste your marinade before slathering it on the chicken. You want it to be salty, but not face-puckering salty. Adjust with more chillies or brown sugar as needed to get that perfect balance. So, marinate your chicken overnight, fire up the grill, and get ready for a taste of the Caribbean in your own backyard. Enjoy!
No-Churn Rum Raisin Ice Cream
This no-churn rum raisin ice cream delivers a lush, velvety texture with deep caramel notes from brown sugar and a warm spice finish. The rum’s bold yet balanced flavor mingles with plump, boozy raisins, creating a sophisticated twist on classic vanilla. A quick soak ensures the raisins stay juicy, while the condensed milk base guarantees a creamy, scoopable consistency. With just a few simple steps, it’s an effortless way to bring a taste of the Caribbean into your home.