The Jamaican Power Bowl Recipe is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the warmth of Jamaican spices with fresh vegetables and hearty grains. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this bowl is packed with flavor and offers a wonderful balance of textures. The use of homemade jerk seasoning elevates the dish, making it not only delicious but also customizable to your spice preference. Whether you’re looking for a filling lunch or a cozy dinner, this power bowl will delight your taste buds and nourish your body.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The homemade jerk seasoning infuses every component with spicy and aromatic notes that transport you straight to the Caribbean.
- Nutrient-Dense: With a variety of vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats, this bowl provides a well-rounded meal that keeps you energized.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in different seasonal vegetables or grains based on what you have on hand!
- Easy Preparation: Most components can be roasted simultaneously in the oven, saving you time and effort while cooking.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch at once for convenient lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Jamaican Power Bowl, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium skillet or pot
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheets: Provides ample space for roasting multiple ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick and easy.
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing ingredients together thoroughly to maximize flavor distribution.
- Medium skillet or pot: Perfect for sautéing aromatics and simmering the stew peas, ensuring even cooking.
Ingredients
For the Jerk Butternut Squash
- 1 small butternut squash (about 1 lb): Peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces.
- 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Helps with caramelization during roasting.
- 2 tablespoons Homemade Jerk Seasoning: A blend of spices that adds warmth and depth.
- 1 tablespoon Onion Powder
- 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder
- 2 teaspoons Cayenne Pepper: Adjust to your heat preference.
- 2 teaspoons Salt + Black Pepper
- 2 teaspoons Dried Thyme
- 2 teaspoons Brown Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Ground Allspice
- 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon Ground Clove
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Cumin
For the Roasted Vegetables
- 2 lbs Baby Yukon Potatoes: Halved.
- 1 lb Brussels Sprouts: Halved.
- 8-10 Mini Sweet Peppers: Halved.
- ¼ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil: For roasting the veggies.
- 1 ½ tablespoons Sea Salt
- 1 ½ tablespoons Black Pepper
- 1 ½ tablespoons Dried Oregano
- 1 ½ tablespoons Dried Basil
- 1 ½ tablespoons Garlic Powder
- 1 ½ tablespoons Dried Parsley
- 1 ½ tablespoons Smoked Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
For the Stew Peas
- 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil: For sautéing aromatics.
- 1 (15 oz) can Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed.
- 1 Carrot, peeled and chopped.
- 1 ½ cups Full-Fat Coconut Cream or Milk: For a rich broth.
- 2 tablespoons Organic Vegetable Stock
- 2 Garlic Cloves, minced.
- ½ Red Onion, diced.
- 2 Scotch Bonnet Peppers, left whole!
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt
- Pinch of Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Allspice
For Assembly
- Cooked Quinoa: Forms the base of the bowl; cook according to package instructions.
- 2 cups Herb Roasted Tomatoes: Adds sweetness and acidity; can use store-bought or homemade.
- Hass Avocado, peeled and diced: Adds creamy richness.
- Homemade Dairy-free Lemon Garlic Dressing: A bright dressing ties flavors together.
How to Make Jamaican Power Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Prepare TWO baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Roast the Jerk Butternut Squash
In a large bowl, combine cubed butternut squash, extra virgin olive oil, and homemade jerk seasoning. Toss until evenly coated. Spread on one baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 3: Roast the Vegetables
In the same large bowl, add halved Brussels sprouts, baby Yukon potatoes, and mini sweet peppers. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with seasonings. Mix well before spreading on the second baking sheet.
Step 4: Cook Both Trays Together
Place both trays in the preheated oven—roast butternut squash for about 25-30 minutes until tender; roast vegetables for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Step 5: Prepare Stew Peas Base
In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sauté minced garlic, diced red onion, and chopped carrot until fragrant. Add spices to bloom their aroma.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients for Stew Peas
Stir in kidney beans, vegetable stock, coconut cream, then bring to boil. Carefully add whole scotch bonnet peppers.
Step 7: Simmer Stew Peas
Reduce heat to low; cover skillet and let simmer gently for about 8-10 minutes.
Step 8: Final Assembly
Remove scotch bonnet peppers from stew peas. Assemble individual bowls by layering cooked quinoa first followed by roasted vegetables, jerk butternut squash, herb-roasted tomatoes, stew peas, diced avocado topped with dressing.
Enjoy every bite of your delicious Jamaican Power Bowl!
How to Serve Jamaican Power Bowl Recipe
Serving your Jamaican Power Bowl is a delightful experience, bringing vibrant colors and bold flavors to your table. Here are some creative suggestions for presenting this delicious dish.
Individual Bowls
- Each person can enjoy their own bowl filled with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and stew peas. This personal touch allows everyone to mix and match ingredients as they prefer.
Family-Style Platter
- Serve all components on a large platter for a communal dining experience. Arrange the quinoa in the center, surrounded by sections of the roasted butternut squash, potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and stew peas for an eye-catching presentation.
Toppings Bar
- Create a toppings bar with extras like chopped herbs, additional dressings, or hot sauce. This lets guests customize their bowls to their liking.
Meal Prep Containers
- For easy lunches throughout the week, portion out the Jamaican Power Bowl into meal prep containers. This makes it convenient for grab-and-go meals while maintaining freshness.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Add fresh cilantro or parsley on top of each bowl for a pop of color and added freshness. This elevates both the appearance and flavor profile.
How to Perfect Jamaican Power Bowl Recipe
To ensure your Jamaican Power Bowl turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips that enhance flavor and presentation.
- Choose ripe produce: Using fresh, ripe vegetables like butternut squash and avocados ensures maximum flavor and texture in your bowl.
- Adjust spice levels: Tailor the heat of the jerk seasoning based on your preference. Start with less cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder taste.
- Roast at high heat: Roasting vegetables at 400°F promotes caramelization, enhancing their natural sweetness while achieving crispy edges.
- Use homemade dressing: A homemade lemon garlic dressing brightens up the flavors significantly compared to store-bought versions.
- Let flavors meld: Allow the stew peas to simmer so that all ingredients blend harmoniously, creating a more flavorful dish.
- Serve immediately: Enjoying the power bowl right after preparation guarantees optimal texture and taste from the roasted components.
Best Side Dishes for Jamaican Power Bowl Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Jamaican Power Bowl can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options:
- Plantain Chips: Crispy plantain chips add a crunchy contrast that complements the soft textures in your bowl.
- Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa brings sweetness and tanginess that pairs beautifully with jerk flavors.
- Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice enhances the tropical theme of your meal while providing a rich base.
- Grilled Corn Salad: A light corn salad with lime dressing adds brightness and freshness to balance out richer elements.
- Spicy Black Bean Soup: A small cup of spicy black bean soup provides a hearty addition that complements the flavors of the power bowl.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts well with roasted elements.
- Avocado Toast: Simple avocado toast topped with lime juice can serve as an excellent shareable side.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables can be served alongside for extra nutrition and variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Jamaican Power Bowl, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using the wrong squash: Always use fresh butternut squash for its sweetness and creamy texture. Avoid overripe or under-ripe squashes, as they can affect flavor and consistency.
- Overcrowding the baking sheets: When roasting, don’t overcrowd your baking sheets. This causes steaming instead of roasting, preventing that desired caramelization.
- Skipping homemade jerk seasoning: Store-bought jerk seasoning can lack freshness. Make your own to control spice levels and enhance flavor.
- Ignoring vegetable sizes: Cut your vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking. This ensures that everything roasts at the same rate, avoiding undercooked or burnt pieces.
- Not tasting before serving: Always taste your stew peas before serving to adjust seasoning. This small step makes a big difference in flavor balance.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Keep components separate if possible to maintain texture.
Freezing Jamaican Power Bowl Recipe
- Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Be sure to label with the date for easy identification later.
Reheating Jamaican Power Bowl Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes on medium power, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Jamaican Power Bowl recipe.
What is a Jamaican Power Bowl Recipe?
A Jamaican Power Bowl Recipe is a vibrant dish featuring roasted vegetables, seasoned proteins, and wholesome grains like quinoa, all combined with flavorful sauces.
Can I customize my Jamaican Power Bowl Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap out vegetables based on your preference or add different proteins like chicken or turkey for variety.
How do I make homemade jerk seasoning?
To make homemade jerk seasoning, combine spices like onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, allspice, and brown sugar. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Is the Jamaican Power Bowl Recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes! This recipe is plant-based and packed with nutrients while delivering rich flavors from various spices and ingredients.
Final Thoughts
The Jamaican Power Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins while enjoying a medley of flavors from the Caribbean. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Jamaican Power Bowl
Savor the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this Jamaican Power Bowl Recipe. This nutritious dish combines roasted butternut squash, colorful vegetables, and creamy avocado, all layered over a bed of fluffy quinoa. Infused with homemade jerk seasoning, every bite is a delightful experience filled with bold spices and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this customizable power bowl can be tailored to suit your taste preferences and seasonal produce availability. With its rich textures and lively flavors, you’ll nourish your body while treating your taste buds to an unforgettable meal.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 tablespoons Homemade Jerk Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Onion Powder
- 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder
- 2 teaspoons Cayenne Pepper
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 2 teaspoons Black Pepper
- 2 teaspoons Dried Thyme
- 2 teaspoons Brown Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Ground Allspice
- 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon Ground Clove
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 2 lbs Baby Yukon Potatoes, halved
- 1 lb Brussels Sprouts, halved
- 8–10 Mini Sweet Peppers, halved
- ¼ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons Sea Salt
- 1 ½ tablespoons Black Pepper
- 1 ½ tablespoons Dried Oregano
- 1 ½ tablespoons Dried Basil
- 1 ½ tablespoons Garlic Powder
- 1 ½ tablespoons Dried Parsley
- 1 ½ tablespoons Smoked Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil for sautéing
- 1 (15 oz) can Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 Carrot, peeled and chopped
- 1 ½ cups Full-Fat Coconut Cream or Milk
- 2 tablespoons Organic Vegetable Stock
- 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
- ½ Red Onion, diced
- 2 Scotch Bonnet Peppers, left whole
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt
- Pinch of Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Allspice
- Cooked Quinoa
- 2 cups Herb Roasted Tomatoes
- Hass Avocado, peeled and diced
- Homemade Dairy-free Lemon Garlic Dressing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil and jerk seasoning; spread on one baking sheet.
- Toss halved Brussels sprouts, baby Yukon potatoes, and mini sweet peppers in olive oil and seasonings; spread on the second baking sheet.
- Roast both trays for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sauté minced garlic, diced red onion, and chopped carrot until fragrant.
- Stir in kidney beans, vegetable stock, coconut cream, then bring to boil. Carefully add whole scotch bonnet peppers.
- Reduce heat to low; cover skillet and let simmer gently for about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove scotch bonnet peppers from stew peas. Assemble individual bowls by layering cooked quinoa first followed by roasted vegetables, jerk butternut squash, herb-roasted tomatoes, stew peas, diced avocado topped with dressing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 450g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 74g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Adjust spice levels in the jerk seasoning to suit your preference. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what's in season or available in your kitchen.