Jamaican cuisine is a vibrant and soulful expression of the island’s rich cultural heritage. At the Taste of Jamaica Farm, Herbal Garden, and Food Tour in Ocho Rios, you can immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Jamaica. Our farm offers a hands-on experience where visitors can learn about organic farming, medicinal herbs, and traditional Jamaican cooking. Whether you’re a food lover, a curious traveler, or a student, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
In this article, we’ll explore the art of making traditional Jamaican soups and stews, showcase what makes them special, and provide you with two classic recipes—mannish Water Soup and Ital Stew—to bring the taste of Jamaica to your kitchen.
The Soul of Jamaican Soups and Stews
Jamaican soups and stews are much more than meals—they are cultural experiences steeped in history. They often combine farm-fresh ingredients, bold spices, and natural flavors. These dishes tell the story of Jamaica’s agricultural roots and culinary innovation, blending influences from African, Indigenous, and European traditions.
At the Taste of Jamaica Farm, you’ll discover the secrets behind these cherished dishes. Our cooking class provides an opportunity to learn how to prepare Jamaican favorites like soups, stews, and other iconic dishes such as jerk chicken and festival.
A Hands-On Jamaican Food Tour
The Taste of Jamaica Farm is not just about food—it’s about the journey from farm to table. Visitors can explore our herbal garden and see firsthand how organic produce and medicinal herbs are grown. This educational experience is ideal for school children as part of their curriculum, teaching them about sustainable farming and the healing properties of herbs.
Our food tour and cooking class invite you to:
- Learn how to make Jamaican soups and stews using fresh, organic ingredients.
- Gain insight into traditional cooking techniques.
- Understand the cultural significance of Jamaican cuisine.
Recipes: Bring Jamaica to Your Kitchen
mannish Water Soup
mannish Water is a traditional Jamaican goat soup, often served at celebrations and gatherings. Its rich, savory flavor comes from a combination of fresh goat meat, root vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs goat head and tripe (cleaned and chopped)
- 1 cup chopped green bananas
- 1 cup diced yam
- 1 cup diced pumpkin
- 1 large carrot, sliced
- 2 stalks of scallion, chopped
- 3 sprigs of thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole)
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 6-8 cups water
Instructions:
- Clean and wash the goat head and tripe thoroughly with lime and water.
- In a large pot, add water and the goat meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
- Add scallion, thyme, garlic, and salt. Let it simmer for 1-2 hours until the meat is tender.
- Add the yam, pumpkin, green bananas, carrot, and Scotch bonnet pepper to the pot. Cook for another 20-30 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot.
Ital Stew
Ital Stew is a vegan dish deeply rooted in Rastafarian culture, emphasizing natural ingredients and bold flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chopped pumpkin
- 1 cup chopped callaloo or spinach
- 1 cup diced yam
- 1 cup diced sweet potato
- 1 cup diced carrot
- 1 cup red kidney beans (cooked)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 stalk of scallion, chopped
- 3 sprigs of thyme
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
Instructions:
- Heat the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, scallion, and thyme until fragrant.
- Add the pumpkin, yam, sweet potato, and carrot. Stir well.
- Pour in the coconut milk and enough water to cover the vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Add the cooked red kidney beans, turmeric, paprika, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Simmer until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the callaloo or spinach and cook for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt. Serve warm.
Plan Your Visit to Taste of Jamaica Farm
Why not experience the magic of Jamaican soups and stews in person? At Taste of Jamaica Farm, you can take part in an unforgettable journey. Learn how to create these dishes from scratch, enjoy the breathtaking views of Ocho Rios, and gain a deeper appreciation for Jamaican culture and cuisine.
Contact us today to book your food tour, cooking class, or educational farm visit. Let us take you on a flavorful adventure!
