Vegan Jamaican Cabbage Curry

This Vegan Jamaican Cabbage Curry is a flavorful dish packed with scotch bonnet pepper, coconut milk, fresh thyme, and green cabbage. A great recipe for a quick and delicious main dish!

Jamaican cuisine is all about bold flavors, fresh vegetables, and simple ingredients that come together to create unforgettable dishes. This Vegan Jamaican Cabbage Curry is a budget-friendly recipe that transforms the humble cabbage into a versatile dish full of spice and creaminess.

Other Curries To Try

• Mushroom Zucchini Coconut Madras Curry
• Vegan Abiko Curry Recipe
• Harissa Lemon Chickpea Curry With Potato
• Vegan Cheesy Chana Masala
• Easy Vegan Japanese Curry With Fonio Recipe

Using a combination of coconut milk, fresh thyme, Jamaican curry powder, and scotch bonnet pepper, this cabbage dish delivers an authentic Jamaican-style taste. Perfect for Sunday dinners, it pairs well with white rice, Jamaican rice, or brown rice. I used Cous cous!

If you're a fan of delicious Jamaican steamed cabbage and want a curry twist, this easy recipe is for you!

Ingredients

Aromatics

• Onion – Adds a deep, savory base flavor.
• Garlic – Enhances the dish with a rich, aromatic taste.
• Green onion – Brings a mild, slightly sweet bite.
• Red bell pepper – Adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
• Scotch bonnet pepper – Gives the dish its signature touch of heat.

Jamaican Seasoning

• Jamaican curry powder – A bold, fragrant spice mix.
• Chili powder – Adds warmth and spice.
• Black pepper – A classic seasoning for depth.
• Purpose seasoning – A well-balanced mix of Caribbean spices.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors.

Plant-Based Ingredients

• Coconut oil or olive oil – Used for sautéing and adding richness.
• Coconut milk – Creates a creamy texture and balances the heat.
• Water or vegetable broth – Helps create the curry base.

Cabbage & Vegan Protein

• Green cabbage – The star of the dish, softening as it absorbs flavors.
• Napa cabbage or red cabbage (optional) – Adds variety and a slightly different texture.
• Tofu – A great protein source, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Fresh Herbs & Extras

• Fresh thyme – Brings an earthy, aromatic touch.
• Tomato slices – Adds subtle acidity and sweetness.
• Cool water – Used to rinse and prepare the cabbage.

Aromatics

• ½ of a sliced onion (white or red)
• 2-3 cloves of sliced garlic
• 1 stalk of green onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• ½ scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (for a touch of heat)

Jamaican Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon Jamaican curry powder (for that classic Caribbean flavor)
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon purpose seasoning
• ½ teaspoon teaspoon salt

Plant-Based Ingredients

• 2 tablespoon coconut oil or olive oil
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (for a creamy texture)
• 1 cup of water or vegetable broth

Cabbage & Vegan Protein

• ½ head of green cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup napa cabbage or red cabbage (optional for variety of cabbage)
• 1 block of tofu, cubed and pan-fried

Fresh Herbs & Extras

• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• Slices of tomato
• A quick rinse of cool water (to clean the cabbage)

How to Make Vegan Jamaican Cabbage Curry

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice green cabbage, red cabbage, and napa cabbage if using different types.
2. Chop the aromatics: onions, garlic, green onion, bell pepper, and scotch bonnet pepper.
3. Cube the tofu and pan-fry it in a large skillet with a little olive oil or coconut oil until golden. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat 2 tablespoon coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and green onion, stirring for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in red bell pepper, tomato slices, and scotch bonnet pepper.

Step 3: Add the Spices & Curry Base

1. Sprinkle in Jamaican curry powder, chili powder, black pepper, and purpose seasoning.
2. Stir well and let the spices toast for a couple minutes to release their oils.
3. Pour in coconut milk and 1 cup of water or vegetable broth for a creamy texture.

Step 4: Simmer the Cabbage

1. Add shredded green cabbage and mix well.
2. Toss in fresh thyme sprigs and tofu.
3. Cover and let it cook over medium heat for about 10.72 minutes (or until soft cabbage is achieved).
4. Stir occasionally, adding a small amount of water if needed.

Step 5: Final Touch & Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Remove from heat and let it rest for a couple minutes before serving.
3. Enjoy with white rice, brown rice, or Jamaican rice for a perfect side dish or main course!

Variations & Substitutions

• Want More Spice? Increase the scotch bonnet pepper or add extra hot pepper for heat.
• Prefer a Protein Boost? Add chickpeas or tempeh instead of tofu.
• Different Types of Cabbage? Try white cabbage, napa cabbage, or Chinese cabbage for variety.
• Oil-Free Version? Sauté the aromatics with vegetable broth instead of oil.

Pro Tips for the Best Vegan Jamaican Cabbage Curry

🔹 Top Tip:

For an extra flavorful dish, let the curry sit for a couple minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to deepen.

🔹 Hint:

This simple dish tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat with a quick paste of water to restore its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this curry without coconut milk?

Yes! Substitute plant milk like almond or oat milk, but expect a less creamy texture.

2. What can I serve with Jamaican cabbage curry?

It pairs well with Jamaican rice, white rice, brown rice, or even chow mein.

3. How spicy is this curry?

It has a touch of heat from scotch bonnet pepper, but you can adjust by adding more or less.

4. Can I use a different kind of cabbage?

Yes! Try red cabbage, napa cabbage, or white cabbage for a different taste.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat with a small amount of water to refresh the texture.

6. Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! This is a great side dish that can be made a day ahead for Sunday dinners or meal prep.

This Vegan Jamaican Cabbage Curry is a delicious taste of Jamaican cooking with a balance of spice, creamy coconut milk, and fresh vegetables. Whether you’re new to Jamaican cuisine or a cabbage lover, this easy recipe is a must-try!

🔥 Ready to spice up your meals? Try this Jamaican-style cabbage curry today and share your thoughts!