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Jamaican cuisine is a vibrant and flavorful reflection of the island’s rich culture, with a fusion of bold spices, fresh ingredients, and creative cooking techniques. Whether you’re craving spicy jerk chicken, hearty oxtail, or the light and savory taste of steamed fish, Jamaican lunch recipes offer something for everyone. From island-inspired favorites to traditional dishes passed down through generations, these meals are perfect for any occasion. If you’re looking to explore the flavors of the Caribbean or spice up your everyday lunches, here are over 25 Jamaican lunch recipes that will bring the heat and excitement to your table!
25+ Delicious Jamaican Lunch Recipes to Bring the Caribbean to Your Table

With these 25+ Jamaican lunch recipes, you can bring the authentic, bold flavors of the Caribbean to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, each recipe offers a unique taste of Jamaica’s rich culinary heritage. From spicy jerk chicken to creamy coconut-based stews, there’s a recipe to suit every preference. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy an island-inspired lunch that will have you dreaming of Jamaica with every bite!
Jerk Chicken & Rice
Looking for a flavorful and spicy Jamaican dish? Jerk Chicken & Rice is a true taste of the Caribbean! This dish features tender chicken marinated in a flavorful jerk seasoning made with scallions, scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, and allspice. Grilled to perfection, the chicken is served alongside a bed of aromatic, fluffy rice cooked with peas and coconut milk, giving it a rich, savory flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a hearty lunch, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds with its smoky and spicy kick.
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Ackee & Saltfish
One of the most iconic Jamaican dishes, Ackee & Saltfish is a delicious combination of salted cod, sautéed with the creamy and mild-tasting ackee fruit. The dish is typically served with fried dumplings or breadfruit, making it the perfect Jamaican lunch option. The ackee fruit, when cooked, has a soft, buttery texture that pairs wonderfully with the saltfish, offering a savory yet subtly sweet flavor. It’s not only a traditional meal but also an experience of Jamaica’s rich food culture.
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Curry Goat
Curry Goat is a popular Jamaican lunch dish known for its tender, fall-off-the-bone meat and rich, flavorful curry sauce. The goat is slow-cooked with a blend of authentic spices, including curry powder, garlic, and ginger, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. Often served with rice and peas or steamed vegetables, this dish is packed with bold flavors and offers a comforting and satisfying meal. If you enjoy hearty, spiced dishes, this one is a must-try for any Jamaican food lover!
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Stew Chicken
Stew Chicken is a beloved Jamaican comfort food, perfect for a hearty lunch. This dish features chicken pieces simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy made from onions, garlic, thyme, and bell peppers, with a hint of browning sauce for that signature caramelized depth. The chicken is tender, juicy, and infused with all the bold spices typical of Jamaican cooking. Paired with rice and peas or a side of fried plantains, Stew Chicken makes for a satisfying, soul-warming meal that will transport you straight to the islands.
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Brown Stew Fish
For a lighter yet equally satisfying Jamaican dish, Brown Stew Fish is an excellent choice. This flavorful dish features whole fish, typically snapper, seasoned with a blend of herbs, spices, and scotch bonnet peppers, then pan-fried and simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce. The fish absorbs all the flavors of the sauce, making every bite incredibly tender and flavorful. Served with steamed vegetables or fried dumplings, Brown Stew Fish is a vibrant and mouth-watering dish that showcases Jamaica’s coastal cuisine.
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Callaloo & Saltfish
A healthy and tasty Jamaican option, Callaloo & Saltfish combines the earthy, slightly bitter flavor of callaloo (a leafy green similar to spinach) with the savory goodness of salted cod. The callaloo is sautéed with onions, peppers, tomatoes, and garlic, then mixed with the saltfish, resulting in a flavorful, nutrient-packed dish. It’s often enjoyed with dumplings or hardo bread, making for a hearty yet light lunch. This dish is a great way to enjoy a mix of flavors and textures that are distinctly Jamaican.
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Jamaican Patty
A Jamaican Patty is a delicious, flaky pastry filled with seasoned ground beef, chicken, or vegetables. The crust is golden and crispy, while the filling is a combination of savory, spicy, and slightly tangy flavors. The meat or vegetable filling is spiced with curry powder, allspice, and Scotch bonnet peppers, giving it a bold and exciting flavor profile. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or a full lunch, Jamaican patties are a perfect on-the-go meal. Pair it with a refreshing drink or some fried plantains for a complete Jamaican experience.
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Escovitch Fish
Escovitch Fish is a popular Jamaican dish that showcases the bold, vibrant flavors of the island. This dish features fried fish, typically snapper or parrotfish, topped with a spicy, tangy pickled vegetable sauce made with carrots, onions, and scotch bonnet peppers. The sauce gives the fish a zesty kick, while the fried fish maintains a crisp texture on the outside, keeping the flesh tender and juicy inside. Escovitch Fish is often served with bammy, festival, or rice and peas, making it a filling and satisfying Jamaican lunch option.
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Pepper Pot Soup
Pepper Pot Soup is a traditional Jamaican dish known for its rich and hearty flavor. This soup combines tender beef, callaloo, okra, and spices, simmered in a flavorful broth with a touch of Scotch bonnet pepper for that signature heat. The combination of root vegetables like yam and sweet potato creates a thick, comforting soup that’s both filling and nourishing. Perfect for a cool day, this soup will warm you up with its aromatic spices and tender meat. Pair it with crusty bread or fried dumplings for an authentic Jamaican lunch experience.
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Curry Chicken
Curry Chicken is a beloved Jamaican dish that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. The chicken is seasoned with a vibrant blend of curry powder, garlic, ginger, and thyme, then simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce that brings out the deep, spicy flavors. The dish is typically served with rice and peas or steamed white rice, making it the perfect filling lunch. The tender chicken absorbs all the spices, making each bite burst with flavor, and the curry sauce is smooth and slightly creamy, offering a satisfying balance to the heat.
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Baked Chicken with Festival
Baked Chicken with Festival is a deliciously comforting Jamaican meal, perfect for a satisfying lunch. The chicken is marinated with a blend of herbs and spices, then baked to a crispy golden perfection. The festival, a sweet, fried cornmeal dough, complements the savory chicken beautifully. Together, the crispy chicken and soft, slightly sweet festival create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. It’s a filling, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that captures the essence of Jamaican cuisine, perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals.
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Jamaican Fried Fish & Bammy
Jamaican Fried Fish & Bammy is a classic dish with a perfect balance of crispy and tender textures. The fish, typically snapper or parrotfish, is seasoned with salt, pepper, and spices, then fried to a crispy, golden-brown perfection. Paired with bammy, a flatbread made from cassava, this dish offers a delightful contrast of flavors. The bammy is often soaked in coconut milk for added richness and then fried to a soft, slightly chewy consistency. Together, the fried fish and bammy make a hearty, satisfying meal that is packed with authentic Jamaican flavor.
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Jerk Pork
Jerk Pork is a succulent Jamaican dish that combines bold, smoky flavors with a spicy kick. The pork is marinated in a traditional jerk seasoning made from ingredients like thyme, scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, and allspice, then slow-cooked or grilled until the outside is charred and crispy while the inside remains juicy and tender. Served with rice and peas or a side of crispy fried plantains, Jerk Pork is a perfect choice for a flavorful and satisfying Jamaican lunch that will spice up your day with every bite.
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Pepper Shrimp
Pepper Shrimp is a vibrant, spicy Jamaican seafood dish that’s perfect for those who love bold, zesty flavors. The shrimp are seasoned with a fiery blend of scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, scallions, and thyme, then sautéed to perfection. The result is a spicy, savory dish that is packed with flavor in every bite. This dish is often enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or light lunch and is typically served with a side of hard dough bread or festival to soak up the flavorful juices. If you love heat and seafood, Pepper Shrimp is a must-try.
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Run Down
Run Down is a traditional Jamaican dish that consists of fish stewed in a creamy, flavorful coconut sauce. The fish, typically mackerel or snapper, is simmered with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and coconut milk until tender and infused with all the savory and rich flavors. The dish is usually served with dumplings, boiled green bananas, or yams, making it a filling and hearty lunch option. Run Down is perfect for anyone who enjoys a coconut-based dish with a blend of spices, providing a taste of authentic Jamaican comfort food.
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Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge
Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge is a creamy, comforting dish that can be enjoyed as a hearty lunch or breakfast. Made with finely ground cornmeal, coconut milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this porridge is rich, smooth, and full of flavor. It’s sweetened with sugar and flavored with a touch of vanilla, creating a comforting balance of textures and tastes. The porridge is often topped with a drizzle of condensed milk for extra creaminess, making it an indulgent yet nutritious meal. Pair it with fried dumplings or bread for a filling, satisfying lunch.
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Steamed Fish & Okra
Steamed Fish & Okra is a healthy and flavorful Jamaican dish that highlights the natural sweetness of fish and the richness of Jamaican spices. The fish, often snapper or parrotfish, is seasoned with a blend of onions, garlic, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers, then steamed with okra and other vegetables in a savory broth made with coconut milk. The result is a tender, flavorful fish with a smooth, slightly thickened broth, making each bite comforting and satisfying. This dish is often served with rice or boiled ground provisions, making it a wholesome Jamaican lunch.
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Jamaican Style Oxtail
Jamaican Style Oxtail is a rich, savory dish that’s perfect for a filling lunch. The oxtail is slow-cooked in a flavorful broth made with garlic, scallions, thyme, and pimento seeds, which infuses the meat with deep, aromatic flavors. The meat becomes incredibly tender, falling off the bone with ease, while the gravy thickens into a rich, hearty sauce. Typically served with rice and peas or plain white rice, Jamaican Oxtail is a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the depth of Jamaican cooking. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a leisurely lunch.
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Jamaican Gungo Peas & Rice
Jamaican Gungo Peas & Rice is a delicious, hearty dish that combines the earthy flavor of gungo peas (also known as pigeon peas) with the rich, aromatic taste of rice. The peas are cooked with thyme, garlic, and a touch of scotch bonnet pepper to create a flavorful base. Coconut milk is added for a creamy, slightly sweet finish that perfectly complements the savory seasonings. This dish is typically served alongside a protein like fried chicken or jerk pork, but it can also be enjoyed on its own for a light and satisfying lunch.
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Jamaican Fried Dumplings
Jamaican Fried Dumplings are a staple in Caribbean cuisine, offering a crispy, golden exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. These dumplings are made with flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, and then fried until they reach the perfect golden brown color. Served as a side dish with jerk chicken, curry goat, or Ackee and Saltfish, fried dumplings are a versatile addition to any Jamaican meal. They can be enjoyed at any time of the day and are perfect for soaking up flavorful sauces and gravies.
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Jamaican Brown Stew Pork
Jamaican Brown Stew Pork is a savory, comforting dish that’s full of rich flavors. The pork is seasoned with a blend of garlic, ginger, thyme, and allspice, and then cooked in a dark, flavorful gravy made from onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. The pork becomes tender as it simmers in the gravy, absorbing all the delicious flavors. Served with rice and peas or plain white rice, this dish is a hearty and satisfying lunch option that’s sure to impress. The slightly sweet, spicy, and savory sauce makes this dish truly irresistible.
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Jamaican Brown Stew Fish
Jamaican Brown Stew Fish is a classic island dish that brings the best of fresh fish and flavorful seasoning together. Typically made with snapper or parrotfish, the fish is marinated with a blend of scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, thyme, and pimento seeds before being pan-fried to a crispy golden brown. It’s then simmered in a rich tomato-based gravy with onions, bell peppers, and carrots, creating a perfect balance of savory and slightly tangy flavors. Often served with rice, festival, or steamed vegetables, this dish is a true taste of the Caribbean.
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Jamaican Fried Chicken
Jamaican Fried Chicken is crispy, flavorful, and a great option for a satisfying lunch. The chicken is seasoned with a variety of spices like allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers, then fried to a golden crisp, locking in all the juicy flavors. The secret to its flavor lies in the marinade, which allows the chicken to absorb the spices deeply, making every bite rich and aromatic. Serve it with a side of rice and peas or fried dumplings for the perfect Caribbean-inspired meal.
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Jamaican Vegetable Rundown
Jamaican Vegetable Rundown is a vegetarian delight that’s both hearty and flavorful. Made with a variety of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and callaloo, the dish is simmered in a rich coconut milk-based sauce infused with garlic, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers. The vegetables absorb the spices and coconut milk, becoming tender and full of flavor. This dish can be served with rice or boiled dumplings and is a delicious option for those looking for a lighter yet satisfying Jamaican meal.
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Jamaican Jerk Shrimp
Jamaican Jerk Shrimp is a bold, flavorful dish that features shrimp marinated in a spicy jerk seasoning made from scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, garlic, and allspice. The shrimp is then grilled or sautéed, creating a smoky, slightly charred flavor while keeping the shrimp tender and juicy. This dish is perfect for a quick, delicious lunch and pairs well with a side of rice and peas or a crisp salad. If you’re looking for a fiery and flavorful meal, this Jamaican Jerk Shrimp will surely satisfy your cravings.
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Conclusion
Exploring the world of Jamaican lunch recipes opens the door to a whole new world of flavors and cooking techniques. With over 25 recipes to choose from, you’ll never run out of exciting, flavorful meal ideas to try. Each dish tells the story of Jamaica’s vibrant culture, with its distinctive spices, fresh produce, and delicious combinations. Whether you’re a fan of spicy heat, savory stews, or light, healthy meals, these Jamaican lunch recipes will help you create a true taste of the island right at home. Enjoy!