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Gluten-free pasta with cauliflower couscous and creamy sauce, healthy plant-based meal.

Vegan Jamaican Cabbage Curry

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.
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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian, Jamaican
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

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

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  • Slice green cabbage, red cabbage, and napa cabbage if using different types.
  • Chop the aromatics: onions, garlic, green onion, bell pepper, and scotch bonnet pepper.
  • 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

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

Step 3: Add the Spices & Curry Base

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

Step 4: Simmer the Cabbage

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

Step 5: Final Touch & Serve

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