Jamaican Callaloo

🌿 A Caribbean Supergreen!

Callaloo is a leafy green vegetable that’s a staple in Caribbean cooking—especially in Jamaica, where it’s beloved for both its flavor and nutrition. It’s similar in texture and taste to spinach or collard greens, but callaloo has its own unique, slightly earthy flavor and tender bite. Traditionally, it’s sautéed or steamed with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and Scotch bonnet peppers, and served alongside ackee, saltfish, dumplings, white rice or rice and peas. 🌶️🍅

Callaloo isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with health benefits:

• 🌱 Nutrient-Rich – Callaloo is high in iron, calcium, and potassium, making it great for bone health, heart health, and energy support.
• 💪 High in Vitamins – It’s loaded with Vitamin A, C, and B-complex vitamins which support vision, immune function, and healthy skin.
• 🧠 Brain & Nerve Support – Callaloo is a good source of folate, essential for brain health and especially important during pregnancy.
• 🩸 Iron Boosting – Its high iron content helps support healthy blood and prevent anemia.
• 🧹 Digestive Support – With its high fiber content, callaloo helps promote regular digestion and a healthy gut.

One of the best things about callaloo? It’s versatile and easy to cook—you can steam it, stir-fry it, blend it into smoothies, or even add it to soups and stews for a hearty, nutrient-dense boost. 🌿🥘

Whether you’re embracing island flavors or looking for a powerhouse green to add to your diet, Jamaican Callaloo is a vibrant and nourishing choice that brings both taste and tradition to the table.

🥄 How to Cook Jamaican Callaloo

Cooking Jamaican callaloo is simple and delicious 😋. Here’s a classic and easy method to prepare it the traditional way, often served for breakfast or as a side dish with lunch or dinner:

🛒 Ingredients:

• 1 pound of fresh Jamaican Callaloo (available whole or finely chopped to save you prep time!)
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 2 stalks scallion (green onion), chopped (optional)
• ½ Scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for heat) 🌶️
• Salt & cayenne pepper to taste
• 1–2 tablespoons oil (coconut oil preferred)
• Optional: ¼ cup water

👩🏽‍🍳 Steps:

1. 1. Wash & Prep the Callaloo
      Remove the tough stems (and any dead leaves) and wash the leaves thoroughly in a bowl of water to remove any grit or dirt. Chop the leaves into smaller pieces.

   2. Sauté the Seasonings
      In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, scallion, tomato. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and the onions start to soften.

   3. Add the Callaloo
      Stir in the chopped callaloo a handful at a time. It will wilt down just like spinach. Mix well to combine with the seasonings.

   4. 

      Add Liquid (if needed)
      If the callaloo seems dry or you want it a bit softer, add a splash of water or broth. Cover the pot and let it steam for about 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.

   5. Season, Serve & Enjoy!
      Season with salt and cayenne pepper to taste. Once the callaloo is tender but still vibrant green, remove from heat and serve hot.