Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet

Name: Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded; 2 large carrots, julienned; 1 medium onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making this Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet because it bursts with vibrant flavors and is a breeze to prepare. The combination of fresh cabbage, sweet carrots, and aromatic spices creates a dish that's not just healthy but also incredibly satisfying. This skillet dish is perfect as a side or a light vegetarian main course. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with rice or proteins! What I enjoy most is how quickly everything comes together, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:43:09.722Z

When I first tried making Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together so harmoniously. The key is to sauté the vegetables just enough to retain their crunch, while the spices help to elevate their natural flavors. I found that adding a touch of vinegar at the end brightens the entire dish.

This recipe can easily be adapted with whatever veggies you have on hand. I've occasionally thrown in bell peppers or snap peas for a pop of color and added texture. Cooking a quick dish doesn’t mean sacrificing on taste!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, fresh flavors that awaken your palate
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Versatile enough to adapt with various vegetables

      

The Role of Cabbage and Carrots

Cabbage is the star of this Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet, providing a crunchy texture that holds up beautifully during cooking. When selecting your cabbage, look for tight heads with crisp, vibrant leaves. The natural sweetness of the cabbage complements the earthiness of the spices and offers a satisfying bite. Carrots, when julienned, not only contribute a pop of color but also add a natural sweetness that balances the dish's savory notes.

The combination of cabbage and carrots yields a delightful mix of smooth and crunchy textures. This variety helps create a more engaging eating experience. It's essential to julienne the carrots evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate as the cabbage, allowing both vegetables to reach a tender state while maintaining some crunch. This balance is crucial for achieving the ideal texture in each bite.

Spicing It Up

The spices used in this dish, particularly cumin and allspice, elevate the flavors significantly. Cumin adds a warm, earthy base note, enhancing the overall depth of the skillet. Allspice introduces a unique sweetness and warmth that nods to the Caribbean roots of this recipe. Freshly ground spices can make a considerable difference in intensity, so if you have them on hand, don’t hesitate to substitute ground spices for whole ones.

When cooking the vegetables, allow some time for the spices to bloom in the oil before adding the cabbage and carrots. This process releases essential oils and enhances their flavors, leading to a richly spiced dish. If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes along with the cumin and allspice for a spicy kick.

Make-Ahead and Variations

This Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet is perfect for meal prep! You can chop the cabbage and carrots in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to cook, just sauté the aromatics and add your vegetables straight from the refrigerator. The flavors will still meld beautifully, and this allows you to enjoy a fresh and healthy side dish with minimal fuss.

You can easily customize this dish by introducing additional vegetables such as bell peppers or green beans for extra color and nutrition. For a protein boost, consider adding cooked beans or chickpeas when you mix in the cabbage and carrots. This way, you can transform the skillet into a light main course that satisfies hunger and keeps it nourishing.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet!

Ingredients

1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
2 large carrots, julienned
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

These ingredients combine to create a colorful and nutritious dish!

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Vegetables

Add the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots to the skillet. Sprinkle with cumin, allspice, salt, and pepper. Toss well to combine and cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Finish with Vinegar

Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the apple cider vinegar over the vegetable mixture. Toss gently to combine and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your vibrant Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a squeeze of lime juice for acidity.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty Jamaican Cabbage and Carrot Skillet pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or quinoa to absorb the flavors of the dish. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish, enhancing the protein balance while keeping the meal light and satisfying. A sprinkle of lime or lemon juice just before serving can also brighten the dish and heighten its freshness.

For a vegetarian twist, this skillet can be served with a side of avocado, adding creaminess that balances the crunch of the vegetables. Another idea is to top it with feta or goat cheese for a tangy, creamy element that complements the savory spices beautifully. Each of these pairings enhances your meal while keeping it aligned with the vibrant flavors of Jamaican cuisine.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and to help rejuvenate the vegetables' texture. Keeping the skillet covered for a few minutes can also help retain moisture during reheating.

For longer storage, this dish can also be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well in the freezer for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy a serving, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop to preserve the flavors and textures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can this dish be made vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or as a side to grilled meats and fish.