Jamaican Vegetable Curry

Name: Jamaican Vegetable Curry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons coconut oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup cauliflower florets; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 tablespoons curry powder; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I first encountered Jamaican Vegetable Curry, I was captivated by its vibrant colors and bold flavors. I couldn't help but experiment with various vegetables and spices, ultimately crafting a dish that bursts with Caribbean essence. The slow-simmering spices combined with fresh produce create a comforting meal that warms the soul. It’s one of those recipes I love to whip up for family gatherings because it’s both nourishing and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or festive occasions.

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:10:11.081Z

Creating Jamaican Vegetable Curry was truly a culinary adventure for me. I experimented with different combinations of vegetables, finally landing on a perfect mix that showcases the tropical flavors unique to this dish. The use of coconut milk not only adds creaminess but also enhances the overall flavor, making it a delightful experience with each spoonful.

One of my favorite tips is to let the curry simmer longer to develop a deeper flavor profile. It allows the spices to infuse thoroughly while the vegetables soften just enough to retain their vibrant colors. Each time I make it, my family can't get enough!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors
Easy to customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables
Comforting and hearty, great for any occasion

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Jamaican Vegetable Curry plays a crucial role in delivering the dish's vibrant flavors. The use of fresh produce like bell peppers, zucchini, and cauliflower not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the dish's textural contrast. The coconut milk, with its creamy consistency and subtle sweetness, balances the spiciness of the curry powder, making for a well-rounded meal. Whenever possible, opt for organic and locally sourced vegetables to elevate the freshness of the dish.

Ginger and garlic are essential aromatics in this recipe. They provide a strong flavor foundation, so it’s important to sauté them until fragrant—this typically takes about 1-2 minutes. If you want to enhance the heat profile, consider adding a fresh chopped chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper, which can elevate the overall spice level without overpowering the dish. Alternatively, for a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of curry powder or use a mild variant.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Proper cooking techniques are essential for achieving the best flavor and texture in your curry. When sautéing the onions, aim for a translucent appearance, which indicates they are properly cooked and have released their sweetness. If the onions begin to brown too quickly, lower your heat to medium-low to prevent them from burning, which would introduce bitterness to the dish.

The simmering stage is another vital technique. After adding the coconut milk, allow the curry to come to a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil. A simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully while preventing the coconut milk from separating. Check the vegetables for doneness by piercing them with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy. If you find they are undercooked, simply cover the pot and let it simmer for a few more minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious Jamaican Vegetable Curry:

Fresh Ingredients

2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup cauliflower florets
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

These ingredients will help you create a flavor-packed curry!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jamaican Vegetable Curry:

Heat the Oil

In a large pot, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Vegetables

Add the red bell pepper, zucchini, carrots, and cauliflower. Stir well to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes.

Incorporate Spices

Add curry powder and stir to coat the vegetables evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Pour Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk and soy sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Simmer the Curry

Reduce heat to low and let the curry simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your Jamaican Vegetable Curry with rice or flatbread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any other vegetables you love or have on hand. Sweet potatoes and green beans work especially well in this dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This curry not only tastes amazing fresh but also stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to four days, or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or additional coconut milk to bring back the creamy consistency, as it may thicken while stored.

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the vegetables just until they are tender-crisp. They will continue to soften during reheating, ensuring that they don’t become too mushy when you serve the dish later.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Jamaican Vegetable Curry experience, consider serving it with a side of rice or quinoa, which will absorb the rich coconut milk broth. For a unique twist, coconut rice can add another layer of flavor, harmonizing with the curry's Caribbean roots. Additionally, some fresh avocado slices or a side of pineapple salsa can add a refreshing contrast to the spice of the curry.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, offer some toasted coconut or crushed nuts as a garnish. Not only do they add texture, but they also complement the creamy richness of the curry. If you have leftovers, they can be deliciously repurposed in a burrito wrap or even as a topping for baked potatoes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but be aware they may cook faster than fresh ones.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add chopped chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dish during cooking.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and flavors deepen over time.