Jamaican Steamed Cabbage (Classic Island Recipe)

If you grew up in Jamaica, this dish needs no introduction. Jamaican steamed cabbage is one of those quiet heroes of the island – simple, humble, yet full of life and flavor. Some folks call it a side dish, but for me, this can easily stand as a full meal. It’s clean, light, and healthy, and it tastes like home.

There are a few variations depending on who’s doing the cooking – some people add saltfish to give it more body, others keep it straight vegetables and seasoning. No matter how you make it, the beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the familiar Jamaican aromatics that bring it to life.

Would you like to eat? Jamaican Pepper Shrimp (Authentic Caribbean Recipe)

What Is Jamaican Cabbage?

Jamaican cabbage, or Jamaican steamed cabbage, is made by gently steaming shredded cabbage with carrots, onions, garlic, fresh thyme, tomato, green onions, and of course a little Scotch bonnet pepper for that subtle island heat. It’s affordable, easy to prepare, and uses ingredients you can find in just about any grocery store—yet it delivers a flavor that feels authentically Caribbean.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find all of these simple, fresh ingredients easily:

• 1 head of green cabbage
• Carrots
• 1 Roma tomato
• 1 yellow onion
• Garlic cloves
• Green onions
• Fresh thyme
• Scotch bonnet pepper (or habanero)
• Water
• Olive oil
• Unsalted butter
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Jamaican Steamed Cabbage

This entire dish can be on the table in under 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping clean, healthy meals.

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a large pan over medium heat and cover with a lid.
2. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Turn heat to low and continue cooking 5 more minutes, until cabbage is tender.
4. Remove thyme stalks and serve hot.

Expert Tips for Perfect Steamed Cabbage

These tips will help you make the best version possible:

• For crunchier cabbage, cook for 6–8 minutes.
• For softer cabbage, cook for 10–12 minutes.
• Serve immediately to avoid overcooking.
• Reduce or remove Scotch bonnet if you don’t want heat.
• Use a vegetable peeler for thin, ribbon-like carrot strips.

Variations You Can Try

• Add cayenne or Tabasco for extra spice.
• Add paprika for a smoky touch.
• Toss in bell peppers for flavor and color.
• Add 1–2 allspice berries for deeper Jamaican flavor.
• Turn it into a meal by adding shrimp, chicken, saltfish, or sausage.
• Buy pre-cut cabbage to save prep time.

What Kind of Cabbage Works Best?

Green cabbage is the classic choice, but you can use:

• Napa cabbage – softer and milder, cooks faster
• Red cabbage – firmer, slightly bitter, cooks slower
• Green cabbage – the perfect middle ground

Adjust your cooking time depending on the cabbage type.

How to Adjust the Recipe Size

To Double:

Double each ingredient and use a large sauté pan or Dutch oven.

To Halve:

Perfect for one or two people—just reduce the ingredients and keep an eye on cooking time.

What Meat Goes Well With Steamed Cabbage?

Jamaican steamed cabbage pairs beautifully with:

• Chicken
• Pork chops
• Steak
• Corned Beef
• Fish
• Saltfish 

But if you want to enjoy it as a full meal, I support that 100%. At Ravoke we encourage eating lighter, cleaner meals that nourish your body without weighing you down.

Cook today Low Carb Jamaican Curry Chicken – A Healthy Caribbean Classic by Charles Mattocks

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the microwave in 30-second increments.
• Meal Prep: Prep veggies ahead, then steam fresh before eating.

FAQ

1. Is Jamaican steamed cabbage spicy?

Only if you want it to be. You can reduce or remove the Scotch bonnet pepper for a milder dish.

2. Can I make this vegan-friendly?

Yes—just replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based substitute.

3. Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely. Saltfish, shrimp, chicken, and even tofu pair perfectly with steamed cabbage.

4. What makes Jamaican steamed cabbage unique?

The combination of thyme, Scotch bonnet, slow steaming, and fresh island aromatics gives it its signature Jamaican flavor.

About the Author

Charles Mattocks is an award-winning filmmaker, actor, author, and global health advocate. The nephew of reggae legend Bob Marley, Charles has devoted his life to raising awareness about chronic illness, health equity, and personal empowerment. His groundbreaking television projects — including Reversed and Eight Days — have aired on major networks and inspired audiences worldwide. Through his work in film, writing, and health media, Charles continues to champion wellness and the importance of evidence-based care across communities.