Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet

Name: Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 small green cabbage, thinly sliced; 2 medium carrots, julienned; 1 onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Salt to taste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet recipe. It's not only vibrant and colorful but also incredibly flavorful. The combination of crisp cabbage and sweet carrots sautéed with warm spices brings a taste of the Caribbean to my kitchen. In just 30 minutes, I can whip this up as a side dish or even a light meal, making it a go-to recipe on busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it again and again.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:13:22.737Z

When I first tried making Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet, I experimented with different seasonings to truly capture that authentic Caribbean flavor. The addition of garlic and a hint of allspice transformed the dish, elevating the simple ingredients into something extraordinary. I've found that allowing the vegetables to caramelize just a bit adds a wonderful depth of flavor that you just can't rush.

This dish is perfect year-round, and I love to serve it alongside grilled meats or even tossed in a vegan wrap. The colors are so inviting, and it’s a great way to pack in healthy vegetables without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, colorful vegetables that delight the senses
A perfect blend of spices that awakens your palate
Quick to prepare, making weeknight cooking a breeze

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh cabbage and carrots is essential for achieving the best texture and flavor in this Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet. Fresh vegetables retain a crispness that adds a delightful crunch to each bite. Look for green cabbage that feels firm and heavy for its size, and choose carrots that are vibrant in color without any soft spots. These details will enhance the overall experience of the dish, giving it the bright profile that defines Caribbean cooking.

In addition, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish not only provide a pop of color but also elevate the dish's flavor by adding brightness and freshness. If you can, try to source organic vegetables; they often come with richer flavors and more nutrients, which contribute to the overall healthiness of the recipe.

Flavor Layering Techniques

Layering flavors is key to making this Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet so compelling. When sautéing the onions and garlic, aim for a light golden color; this is a sign that their natural sugars are starting to caramelize, which brings out a richer flavor profile. This step takes approximately 3 minutes over medium heat and sets the stage for the sweetness of the carrots and the heartiness of the cabbage to shine through.

As you incorporate the spices, like allspice and black pepper, give the mixture time to cook for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the spices to bloom and permeate the vegetables, ensuring that every forkful is packed with flavor. Adjust the seasoning to your liking during this stage, as the right balance can elevate the dish significantly.

Ingredients

To make this vibrant Jamaican dish, you'll need the following fresh ingredients:

Ingredients

1 small green cabbage, thinly sliced
2 medium carrots, julienned
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delightful and flavorful skillet dish:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Add Carrots and Cabbage

Stir in the julienned carrots and sliced cabbage. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage is wilted.

Season the Vegetables

Sprinkle in the allspice, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine and let it cook for another 5 minutes.

Finish with Vinegar

Drizzle in the apple cider vinegar, mixing everything thoroughly. Cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat.

Serve and Garnish

Transfer the skillet to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve warm as a delightful side.

Enjoy this dish warm, and feel free to adjust seasonings to your taste.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or some chopped bell peppers while cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet is an excellent make-ahead option! You can prep the vegetables a day in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This reduces your cooking time significantly on busy weeknights. When ready to cook, simply sauté the aromatics and add the pre-cut veggies, resulting in a fresh dish that tastes like it was just made.

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just ensure they are in a sealed container to maintain their flavor and texture. You can revive the dish by briefly reheating it in the skillet with a splash of vegetable oil or water to prevent it from drying out.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding other seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. These can provide added color and nutritional benefits while maintaining the dish's Caribbean charm. However, be mindful of cooking times—softer vegetables should be added into the skillet after the cabbage has begun to wilt.

For those who prefer a heartier meal, consider mixing in some protein such as black beans or chickpeas towards the end of cooking. These legumes not only boost the dish's nutritional content but also create a satisfying vegetarian main course when served alongside grains like quinoa or brown rice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any other favorite vegetables you have on hand.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet is completely vegan and gluten-free.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can prep the vegetables ahead of time for a quick cook later. Simply sauté when you're ready to serve.