Jamaican raw vegetables are a refreshing and crunchy complement to the island’s bold and flavorful dishes. Typically made with thinly sliced cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, and sometimes cucumbers or onions, this simple slaw is lightly tossed with a splash of vinegar or lime juice and a touch of sugar for a sweet and tangy finish.
Raw vegetables are especially popular with fried dishes like Escovitch fish, fried chicken, or festival. They offer a cool, crisp contrast that brightens the plate and balances savoury flavours.
Unusual fact: In many Jamaican homes and cookshops, raw vegetables are referred to simply as “salad,” even though they contain no lettuce or creamy dressing—just fresh crunch and island flavour!
Simple, zesty, and slightly sweet—Jamaican raw vegetables bring freshness and colour to every meal.
When I first migrated to Canada, cooking wasn't really my thing. But the longing for the rich flavors of home—and the reality of feeding a household of six—pushed me to learn how to make quick, easy Jamaican meals with just a few simple ingredients. Over time, cooking became more than a necessity—it became a joy.
Like a true Jamaican, my favorite part of cooking is sharing meals and seeing the happiness they bring to others. Even better? Inviting others into my kitchen—especially those who believed Jamaican food was too hard to make—and showing them how easy and fun it can be.
Now, I want to share that same experience with you and your loved ones, right in the comfort of your own home. Let's bring the joy of authentic Jamaican cooking to your kitchen, one simple, delicious meal at a time.
