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Caribbean Cabbage Side

Featured in Meatless meals that satisfy.

This flavorful steamed cabbage combines tender veggies with peppers, carrots, garlic, thyme, and a bit of scotch bonnet heat. Cooked lightly in coconut oil, it’s a healthy, gluten-free side full of flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, this colorful vegan dish pairs perfectly with your favorite Caribbean mains.
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alicia in the kitchen
Updated on Sat, 12 Apr 2025 19:52:46 GMT
A vibrant dish of steamed cabbage with carrots and peppers for a fresh and tasty side. Pin it
A vibrant dish of steamed cabbage with carrots and peppers for a fresh and tasty side. | tasteofsavor.com

Island-style steamed cabbage turns an ordinary veggie into a bright, tasty side. Each portion mixes soft cabbage with colorful bell peppers and carrots, making a perfect combo of tropical flavors.

This plate shows what Caribbean cooking is all about - taking basic stuff and making it amazing through good cooking. The veggies keep their own bite while coming together in a fragrant, tasty mix.

Main Components

  • Cabbage: Go for a heavy, fresh head with snappy leaves and no spots. Tight leaves will give you the right texture.
  • Bell Peppers: Pick ones that are firm and bright for better taste and looks.
  • Carrots: Look for fresh, solid ones without splits to add just the right sweetness.
  • Scotch Bonnet: It's a classic but you can skip it. Brings that true Caribbean kick and fruity flavor.
  • Aromatics: Fresh garlic and onions build your flavor base.
  • Seasonings: Caribbean blend, fresh thyme, and sea salt make it taste just right.

Cooking Steps

Cutting Veggies:
Cut cabbage into thin strips. Slice carrots and peppers into matchsticks. Even cuts make sure everything cooks the same.
Flavor Start:
Warm oil till it ripples. Cook aromatics till they smell good but don't brown.
Stacking:
Put in veggies one after another - first carrots, then cabbage, peppers last. Season as you go.
Steam Time:
Add just a bit of water, cover well, and keep the steam gentle throughout.
A plate of food with a variety of vegetables, including carrots and cabbage, is displayed on a table. Pin it
A plate of food with a variety of vegetables, including carrots and cabbage, is displayed on a table. | tasteofsavor.com

Getting steamed cabbage just right comes down to watching your timing and heat. Listen for soft bubbling sounds while it cooks.

Time Reference

Cover and steam for 15 minutes flat. Your cabbage should look slightly see-through but still hold its shape.

Serving Ideas

Use a wide, flat dish to show off all the colorful veggies. The steam rising adds a nice touch to how it looks.

Twist It Up

Try adding local veggies like christophene or callaloo for more authentic flavor while keeping the dish's basic character.

Keeping Leftovers

Store in airtight containers and eat within a day. The flavors get even better overnight.

A plate of food with a variety of vegetables, including cabbage and carrots, is displayed on a table. Pin it
A plate of food with a variety of vegetables, including cabbage and carrots, is displayed on a table. | tasteofsavor.com

This approach sticks to old-school Caribbean cooking ways while giving you great results every time. Good technique turns basic ingredients into something really special on your plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Which type of cabbage works here?
Go with firm white cabbage. Bok choy or savoy won't work well as they get too soft once cooked.
→ Can I tone down the spice?
Yes, skip the scotch bonnet or replace it with just a pinch of mild chili powder.
→ How long does this keep in the fridge?
It tastes best freshly made. You can freeze leftovers if needed, as cabbage gets bitter quickly.
→ What’s the best pairing for this dish?
Enjoy it with jerk chicken, curry goat, or rice and peas for a full Caribbean spread.
→ Can I make it in advance?
Sure thing, but it shines fresh. If reheating, do it gently and eat within a day for peak flavor.

Caribbean Cabbage Side

A colorful side with tender cabbage, sweet peppers, and bold flavors. Perfect with any meal thanks to its vibrant Caribbean seasoning.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Alicia

Category: Vegetarian

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Jamaican

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Base

01 1 small onion, cut into strips
02 3-4 sprigs of thyme, bundled together
03 3 garlic cloves, coarsely minced
04 2 tablespoons coconut oil

→ Vegetables

05 ½ a large white cabbage, shredded finely
06 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
07 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
08 1 medium carrot, julienned
09 ½ scotch bonnet pepper, minced finely (or use ¼ teaspoon chili powder instead)

→ Seasonings

10 A pinch of pink salt to your taste
11 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
12 1 tablespoon plant-based butter
13 ¼ cup water
14 1 teaspoon of mixed seasoning blend

Instructions

Step 01

Heat the coconut oil on medium. Add the garlic, onion slices, and thyme. Stir occasionally until everything softens.

Step 02

Lower the heat, toss in the water, put a lid on the pan, and let it steam gently for 10-15 minutes. For crunchier cabbage, stop at 10 minutes.

Step 03

Throw in the shredded cabbage, bell peppers, carrots, and minced scotch bonnet. Stir and toss continuously for about 5 minutes until the cabbage starts to wilt.

Step 04

Take the lid off. Sprinkle the seasoning blend, add the black pepper, salt, and stir in the butter. Mix everything thoroughly.

Step 05

Serve it hot on a plate. For a bit of flair, you can garnish with a thyme sprig if you’d like.

Notes

  1. Pick a firm cabbage—skip ones like savory or bok choy.
  2. Eat it as soon as you make it for the freshest taste.
  3. Freeze leftovers in airtight containers that are freezer-safe.

Tools You'll Need

  • A wide pan with a lid
  • A sturdy cutting board
  • A sharp chef’s knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 157
  • Total Fat: 10 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 17 g
  • Protein: 3 g