Plant-Powered Jamaica: Embracing Veganism

Perfect for trendsetters and taste explorers alike, the plant-based revolution, continues to grow every year, with evermore people choosing to trial and embrace this way of life for both their wellbeing, and the good of the planet!

A flavour-packed adventure, the Rastafarian Ital cuisine is like a carnival for your taste buds, blending vibrant flavours with alkaline and protein-rich ingredients like callaloo, lentils, and beans, which play key roles in these recipes. Rastafarians choose to follow a natural, plant-based diet for reasons including increased energy levels, minimal additives, and a deeper connection to Earth.

This Veganuary, get inspired and playful with dishes that are truly paradise for your palate – introducing the Caribbean Bean Curry! This wholesome curry utilises authentic Caribbean ingredients and cooking styles, paired here with some crispy Fritters for the ultimate plant-based dinner.

So, why settle for the same-old, same-old when you can spice up your January with a Jamaican twist? Dive into the Caribbean vibe, and let your taste buds catch the rhythm of a plant-powered party!

Ingredients:

1 can Dunn’s River Peas & Beans, 400g

1 can Dunn’s River Butter Beans, 400g

1 can Dunn’s River Coconut Milk, 400ml

2 tbsp Dunn’s River Mild Curry Powder, 100g

1 tsp Dunn’s River Everyday Seasoning, 100g

2 tsp Dunn’s River Ginger Garlic Pimento, 80g

1 tsp Dunn’s River Thyme, 40g

5 tbsp Grace Coconut Oil, 500ml

1 tsp Grace Hot Pepper Sauce, 85ml

1 can Chopped Tomatoes, 400g

2 Sweet Potato – chopped

1 Large White Onion – chopped

2 Spring Onions – finely chopped

Small bunch Fresh Coriander – finely chopped (for garnish)

135g Grace Fritters Mix, 270g

125ml Water

Method

1) Heat 1tsp of Grace Coconut Oil in a large deep bottomed pot over a medium heat and sauté onion for 2-3 minutes until softened.

2) Add chopped tomatoes, sweet potato and all of your Dunn’s River Seasonings, and bring to the boil for 5 minutes before reducing the heat to medium-low.

3) Add the canned Dunn’s River Peas & Beans, Dunn’s River Butter Beans, Dunn’s River Coconut Milk and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4) Portion into individual bowls and garnish with chopped coriander and a sprinkle finely slices spring onion.

5) To make the Fritters, combine Grace Salt Fish Fritters Mix with 125ml water and let batter sit for 5 minutes. Portion into 1 tbsp sized fritters and fry in ½ inch of Grace Coconut Oil on a medium heat, turning occasionally, until crispy and golden brown – Drain fritters on paper towel and serve hot alongside your curry – Enjoy!

For a truly authentic Ital food experience, a trip to Jamaica is a must! Located in downtown Montego Bay alongside the Montego Valley River lies the Rastafari Indigenous Village, with the purpose of preserving, protecting and promoting the traditional Rastafari way of life, including Ital cuisine. Guests are welcome to learn more about Rastafarians to ensure an authentic and intimate cultural exchange. Walking through the beautiful flower and herb gardens, guests can harvest vital foods such as callaloo or cacao to bring up to the Ital kitchen, pound their own cacao for chocolate tea, and press their own cane juice to help create and cook the best plant-based food on the island.

Explore the art of cooking traditional Ital food or, even better, embark on a journey to Jamaica to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant plant-based lifestyle and culture.

For more information about food in Jamaica www.visitjamaica.com.