Jamaican Callaloo Recipe

[lomiloml]

Jamaican Callaloo is a vibrant and nutritious dish that showcases the delicious, leafy greens often found in Caribbean cooking. I made this recently, and it was not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor! Callaloo can be enjoyed as a side dish or even as a main course, especially when paired with rice or dumplings. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Ingredients:​

• 1 bunch of fresh callaloo (or spinach if unavailable), roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or coconut oil)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to taste), chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
• 1-2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
• 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:​

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and bell pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
4. Cook the Callaloo: Add the chopped callaloo to the skillet and stir well to combine. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the leaves are wilted and tender.
5. Add Coconut Milk (Optional): If you’re using coconut milk, pour it into the skillet at this point, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Season and Serve: Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat.

Jamaican Callaloo is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the Caribbean to your table. It's nutritious, flavorful, and pairs wonderfully with rice, fried plantains, or even just on its own. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a part of your meal!