Jamaican Roasted Cabbage

Name: Jamaican Roasted Cabbage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 medium green cabbage, cut into wedges; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: International Culinary Magic

I love making Jamaican Roasted Cabbage because it’s a simple yet flavorful dish that packs a punch. The smoky, savory flavors from the roasting bring out the natural sweetness in the cabbage, making it an unexpected treat. With just a few spices and steps, I can create a beautiful side that complements any meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those looking for healthy, plant-based dishes that still feel satisfying. Trust me, this recipe will elevate your vegetable game!

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:58:10.344Z

When I first made Jamaican Roasted Cabbage, I was blown away by how much flavor could come from a simple vegetable. The combination of the roasting process and the spices brings out the natural sweetness of the cabbage, making it irresistible. I particularly love using jerk seasoning for an authentic taste, but feel free to adjust the spices to cater to your preference. Every bite is a delight!

During my cooking adventures, I discovered that letting the cabbage roast until it caramelizes a bit on the edges adds a whole new depth of flavor. It’s this charred goodness that sets this dish apart from regular steamed cabbage. Pair it with some rice and peas, and you have a complete meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously infused with traditional Jamaican spices
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
A unique twist on a classic vegetable side dish

Flavor Profile and Ingredients

The combination of olive oil and jerk seasoning is key to the flavor of this dish. Olive oil not only helps in roasting but also acts as a carrier for the spices, allowing their rich, aromatic qualities to penetrate the cabbage. The jerk seasoning, with its blend of spices such as allspice, thyme, and scallions, infuses the cabbage with a distinctively warm and zesty flavor profile, enhancing its natural sweetness.

Cabbage is a versatile vegetable that holds up beautifully during roasting. The high heat caramelizes the sugars present in the cabbage, resulting in crispy edges and tender interiors. This contrast in texture is incredibly satisfying and adds depth to your meal. Plus, jasmine can be substituted with red or Savoy cabbage for an equally delicious outcome, each offering its unique flavor nuances and visual appeal.

Roasting Technique

When roasting your cabbage wedges, be mindful of how they are positioned on the baking sheet. Arranging them cut-side down maximizes contact with the hot surface, promoting even cooking and crispiness. This method can yield better caramelization compared to simply throwing them haphazardly on the sheet. For a more nuanced flavor, consider adding sliced onions or bell peppers to the sheet for additional sweetness.

Don't forget to check the cabbage frequently during roasting—oven temperatures can vary. Aim for a beautiful golden-brown color on the edges, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes. If you find that your cabbage isn't browning to your liking, feel free to increase the oven temperature by 25°F and keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Ingredients

For the Jamaican Roasted Cabbage

1 medium green cabbage, cut into wedges
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon jerk seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Lime wedges, for serving

Enjoy this delicious side dish with your favorite main course!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Cabbage

In a large bowl, toss the cabbage wedges with olive oil, jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper until well coated.

Roast the Cabbage

Arrange the cabbage wedges cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden and crispy.

Serve

Remove from the oven, serve with lime wedges, and enjoy!

Make sure to enjoy this dish fresh for the best flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a few slices of jalapeño to the cabbage before roasting. You can also experiment with different seasoning blends to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Roasted Cabbage pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, especially grilled meats or spicy stews. Its crispy texture and flavorful spices complement hearty proteins like jerk chicken or fish. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside quinoa or brown rice, which balances the crunchy cabbage with a soft texture and completes the plate nutritionally.

For an added burst of flavor, consider drizzling a light vinaigrette over the roasted cabbage just before serving. A simple mix of lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt creates a refreshing contrast to the smoky notes of the cabbage, elevating the dish even further.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The cabbage may soften when reheated, but it can still be enjoyed as a cold salad or warmed up in a skillet. For reheating, place the cabbage in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method helps to retain some of its original crispiness.

To make ahead, you can prepare the cabbage wedges and toss them with olive oil and jerk seasoning a day in advance. Store them in the fridge, covered, until you're ready to roast. This can save time and allows the flavors to meld together even more, giving you a tastier dish when you finally pop it in the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of cabbage?

Yes, Savoy or Napa cabbage can work well as alternatives.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Roasted Cabbage?

It pairs beautifully with rice and peas, grilled meats, or fish.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the cabbage and toss it with seasonings a few hours in advance.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is inherently vegan, just ensure that your jerk seasoning is also vegan-friendly.