Jamaican Callaloo With Shrimp

Photo by Chris De La Rosa
Photo by Chris De La Rosa

Ingredient Guide

  • Callaloo (or young spinach or amaranth): Tender leafy green that becomes silky when cooked.
  • Shrimp: Quick-cooking seafood that brings subtle sweetness and protein.
  • Garlic and Onion (or scallion whites): Base aromatics that build flavor and fragrance.
  • Scallions and Thyme: Fresh herbs that brighten the dish.
  • Whole Scotch Bonnet Pepper: Infuses mild heat and fruity pepper flavor (remove before serving).
  • Tomato (optional): Adds tang and a pop of color.
  • Vegetable Oil: For sautéing ingredients and preventing sticking.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: Seasonings to enhance the overall dish.

Description

Sautéed callaloo greens and shrimp in garlicky, aromatic herbs make this a comforting, flavorful Caribbean dish.

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Wash, trim, and chop the callaloo into ribbons. If using the stems, use only tender ones and scrape off some of the outer skin. Set aside.
  • Photo by Chris De La Rosa

    Thinly slice the garlic, and chop the onion, scallion, tomato, and Scotch bonnet pepper.

  • Heat oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, black pepper, and scallion. Reduce heat to low and sauté for 3–4 minutes.
  • Photo by Chris De La Rosa

    Stir in shrimp (if using precooked, rinse and squeeze out excess moisture). Cook for 3 minutes. For fresh shrimp, cook for 3 minutes, remove, and set aside; return them during the final few minutes of cooking.

  • Photo by Chris De La Rosa

    Increase heat to medium-high and add the callaloo, tomato, thyme, and Scotch bonnet. Stir to combine; the greens will wilt down.

  • Photo by Chris De La Rosa
    Photo by Chris De La Rosa

    Add water and simmer uncovered for about 10–12 minutes or until callaloo reaches your desired tenderness.

  • Taste and adjust salt as needed. Optional: Finish with a splash of lemon juice to balance the flavors. Stir to combine and cook off any excess liquid.
  • Photo by Chris De La Rosa

    Add reserved shrimp if using fresh. Stir in scallions. Serve hot.

Source: caribbeanpot.com