Craving some bold, island flavor in your meals? These authentic Jamaican recipes are just what you need to bring that Caribbean flair straight to your kitchen!
Spend even a couple of days in Jamaica and you’ll quickly realize that Jamaican cuisine is so much more than just jerk chicken and rice (though yeah, we’ve got that too, because let’s be real—it’s a quintessential Jamaican dish and Jamaicans take it seriously).
But the food scene goes way beyond that. You’ve got dishes that are vibrant, spicy, fruity, and just bursting with unique island flavor.
From fresh seafood and oxtail to bold spices like pimento, thyme, and that fiery jerk seasoning, these recipes pull influence from across the Caribbean, using all the amazing local ingredients at their fingertips.
This roundup includes the classics, of course, but also introduces you to a bunch of other traditional Jamaican dishes you might not have tried yet.
So grab your apron and get ready to take a flavor-packed virtual trip to Jamaica—your taste buds are gonna love it!
Contents
20. Jerk Chicken Wings with Jamaican Seasonings
Using a slow cooker is a total game-changer when it comes to making juicy jerk chicken that still delivers that authentic taste you’d expect from a delicious Jamaican classic.
It locks in all those vibrant flavors—like allspice, black pepper, and that signature kick from your favorite homemade jerk blend—while giving you time to whip up the good stuff on the side, like fried plantains or some crunchy coleslaw.
And no grill? No problem. Just toss the wings under the broiler or pop them in the air fryer for a quick char and crispy skin. It’s perfect for anyone cooking in an apartment or without a backyard setup, but still craving that bold, island-style flavor.
19. Banana Fritters – Quick and Easy Jamaican Dessert Recipe
Banana Fritters are one of those simple pleasures that come together in minutes and taste like pure comfort. Crisp on the outside, soft and sweet in the middle — they’re even better with a drizzle of lime or lemon juice and a dusting of caster or icing sugar.
Want to take them up a notch? Try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a spoonful of coconut cream, or a swirl of whipped cream.
A cheeky splash of orange liqueur, rum, brandy, or whiskey liqueur doesn’t hurt either — it adds a lovely grown-up twist.
Banana Pancakes are essentially the fritter’s laid-back cousin — same ingredients, just a thinner batter for that wide, golden spread in the pan. Perfect for lazy brunches or a cozy dessert.
18. Beef Patties with Jamaican Spices
Most of the time, my recipes are deeply rooted in my Southern background — full of bold flavors and heartwarming comfort. But this Spicy Jamaican Beef Patties recipe comes from the other side of my heritage: Jamaica.
Growing up in Florida, I was lucky to experience the best of both worlds. My plate was often filled with soulful Southern dishes and vibrant Jamaican flavors, thanks to a family full of incredible cooks born and raised on the island.
Over time, I’ve adjusted and fine-tuned these patties until they hit that just-right balance of flaky crust and spicy, juicy filling. And now? I can honestly say: they’re perfection.
17. Ackee and Saltfish – Authentic Jamaican Recipe
Get ready to experience a delicious plant-based take on a true Jamaican favorite — Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish (minus the fish, of course)!
Jackfruit takes center stage here, seasoned to perfection to recreate the flavor and flaky texture of traditional saltfish. Then comes the creamy ackee, adding that signature richness Jamaicans know and love.
With a vibrant mix of aromatic spices, bell peppers, and onions, every bite delivers bold, authentic Caribbean flavor — no compromise on taste, just pure plant-based goodness!
16. Jamaican Rum Cake – Add in Your New Recipes!
There’s a reason rum cake is a must-have souvenir from Caribbean getaways — it’s irresistibly good!
At first glance, it may look like a simple, buttery bundt cake… but don’t be fooled. The magic is in the flavor.
Once it’s baked and slightly cooled, a rich syrup made with butter, sugar, and dark rum is slowly poured over the top, soaking into every inch of the cake and turning it into a moist, melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. Every slice is pure vacation vibes!
15. Soft and Crispy Jamaican Fried Dumplings
Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these golden little bites are absolutely irresistible.
Their subtle flavor makes them incredibly versatile — they’re not too sweet and not too savory, which means they pair just as beautifully with spicy Jamaican chicken curry as they do with caramelized sweet plantains or even a simple pat of butter and honey.
Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a snack all on their own, they always seem to disappear fast from the table. Perfect for soaking up sauces or enjoying by the handful!
14. Decadent Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
If you’re a fan of sweet potato pie, this recipe is definitely calling your name. It features a unique double-bake method that creates a lightly crisped, flavorful base with a silky, pudding-like layer on top.
The result is a rich, comforting dessert that feels like a cozy hug in every bite.
Just a heads up — if you’re using the typical American orange sweet potatoes (instead of firmer varieties found elsewhere), you might want to add a touch more flour to help the structure hold up perfectly.
13. Jamaican Oxtail Stew – Tender, Rich, and Bursting with Flavor
Oxtail is one of those cuts that transforms into something magical when slow-cooked — rich, tender, and full of deep, beefy flavor. It’s the ultimate comfort food, especially in a hearty stew.
If you’re after a cozy winter warmer, you can leave out the chilis for a mellow, soul-soothing dish. But if you’re in the mood for a fiery kick, toss in some hot peppers and let the spice do its thing.
Either way, this stew is guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.
12. Sticky Sweet Fried Plantains with Maple Syrup and Coconut Oil
I first tasted sweet fried plantains in Haiti, and it was love at first bite. Since then, I’ve sought them out wherever I go — and in Jamaica, they’re next-level.
There, they’re often pan-fried in coconut oil and kissed with a touch of brown sugar and sticky maple syrup, giving them a rich, caramelized finish.
They cook up quickly, just a few minutes in the pan until soft, golden, and slightly crisp on the edges. Pure island comfort on a plate.
11. Jamaican Cooking: Carrots in Hot Sauce with Pineapple Juice, and Cumin
What makes these carrots stand out from grandma’s classic version? It’s all about the unexpected flavor twist — a bold combo of hot sauce, tangy pineapple juice, and earthy cumin.
The result? A sweet, spicy, and slightly smoky side dish that’s anything but ordinary. Trust me, once you try them, plain buttered carrots just won’t cut it anymore. These are absolutely to die for.
10. Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge Breakfast Recipe
This unexpected blend of cornmeal, condensed milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg completely won me over during my first morning in Jamaica.
Served warm with fresh mango slices and a sprinkle of coconut shavings, it was the kind of comforting, flavorful breakfast that lingers in your memory.
Sweet, spiced, and satisfying — the perfect way to ease into a slow island morning.
9. Jamaican Rice and Peas with Scotch Bonnet Pepper
This one’s simple but seriously packed with flavor—a total must alongside some spicy jerk chicken!
Even though it’s called rice and peas, this classic peas recipe actually uses kidney beans (yep, we know, kinda confusing but totally traditional).
The trick to making the best rice? Cook it in a mix of stock and coconut cream so it turns out super tender, rich, and flavorful every time.
It’s a genuine Jamaican side dish that brings all the cozy vibes, especially when you toss in some curry powder for an extra boost. And if Scotch bonnet peppers are a little too fiery for you, no worries—just leave ’em out and keep things mild.
8. Jamaican Carrot Juice with Condensed Milk and Spices
You might not believe it until you take that first sip, but Jamaican carrot juice is a total game-changer. It’s not your average veggie drink — this one’s smooth, creamy, and spiced just right with cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
Sweetened with condensed milk, it tastes more like dessert than anything remotely healthy. Swap in coconut milk for a nuttier, island-inspired twist.
7. Unique Jamaican Curry Chicken
Jamaican curry may resemble some Asian curries at first glance, especially with its use of coconut milk and vibrant spices — but don’t be fooled. What sets it apart is the warmth and depth of flavor.
Scotch bonnet peppers bring the heat, while allspice and turmeric add that signature island richness. It’s bold, earthy, and perfectly spiced — a true Caribbean comfort dish.
6. Jerk Chicken – Tasty and Simple Caribbean Meal!
When it comes to jerk chicken, bone-in thighs and legs are the way to go. The dark meat holds up beautifully to the bold, fiery spices and stays juicy during cooking.
Baking them in the oven works just fine, but if you have access to a grill, don’t miss the chance — that smoky char takes the marinade to the next level and brings out all those deep, savory flavors.
5. Jamaican Callaloo with Onion, Tomatoes and Green Onions
Callaloo is a leafy green dish that’s a staple in Jamaican cuisine — similar in texture and flavor to spinach but with a bit more body.
It’s typically cooked down with onions, tomatoes, green onions, and of course, a fiery Scotch bonnet pepper for that signature heat.
If callaloo isn’t available near you, don’t worry — collard greens are an excellent substitute. You can also use a mix of spinach and green cabbage to mimic the texture and create a delicious version with your own twist.
4. Try to Make Jamaican Jerk Marinade
I totally get the temptation to skip steps — we all want quicker meals. But trust me, marinating your meat is so worth it. The depth of flavor it adds is hard to beat.
Here’s a little trick: make a big batch of marinade, let your meat soak it up, then pop portions into the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, just thaw and go — the flavor’s already locked in!
And don’t let the ingredient list scare you. Odds are, you’ve got most of it in your pantry already. A little prep now means a seriously tasty payoff later.
3. Spicy Jamaican Hot Pepper Shrimp
This bold and fiery dish definitely brings the heat — it’s not for the spice-shy!
Once those chopped peppers hit the pan, their flavor infuses every inch of the shrimp, making each bite a spicy little punch.
That said, if you prefer things a bit milder, feel free to skip the peppers altogether. You’ll still end up with a flavorful, perfectly seasoned shrimp dish that’s packed with personality — just minus the fire.
2. Colorful Jamaican Steamed Cabbage
Cabbage is a humble, budget-friendly veggie found around the world — but this vibrant Jamaican twist might just be my favorite version yet.
What really sets it apart? The fiery kiss of a Scotch bonnet pepper.
It gives this otherwise mild and mellow side dish a bold kick of heat that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering them. Simple, spicy, and totally unforgettable!
1. Jamaican Oxtail with Sautéed Vegetables
Who knew oxtail could be such a showstopper?
If you’ve never cooked with it before, this is your sign to give it a go.
Thanks to its higher fat content, oxtail creates an ultra-rich, flavorful broth — and when slow-cooked, the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, possibly even better than your usual beef stew cuts. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.
20 Authentic Jamaican Recipes: Must-Try Jamaican Rice and Peas Recipe!
Discover 20 authentic Jamaican recipes, featuring the must-try Jamaican rice and peas! Bring the genuine taste of Jamaica to your table with vibrant spices.
Ingredients
- Jerk Chicken Wings with Jamaican Seasonings
- Banana Fritters
- Beef Patties with Jamaican Spices
- Ackee and Saltfish
- Jamaican Rum Cake
- Jamaican Fried Dumplings
- Vegan Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding
- Jamaican Oxtail Stew
- Sticky Sweet Fried Plantains
- Jamaican Carrots
- Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge Recipe
- Rice and Peas
- Jamaican Carrot Juice
- Jamaican Curry Chicken
- Jerk Chicken
- Jamaican Callaloo
- Jamaican Jerk Marinade
- Jamaican Hot Pepper Shrimp
- Jamaican Steamed Cabbage
- Jamaican Oxtail
Instructions
- Choose any Jamaican Recipes from the post that you like
- Click on the link below the photo to get the full recipes and instructions.
- Try the best Jamaican Recipes and share your photo under my pin on Pinterest!
I’m Anastasia and I’m a full-time blogger, online entrepreneur, and Pinterest marketing strategist. I help digital entrepreneurs and bloggers drive targeted traffic from Pinterest either through my online courses or through Pinterest consultancy.