Best Jamaican Chicken Soup Recipe with Dumplings: A Hearty and Authentic Caribbean Classic

Jamaican Chicken Soup Recipe

Jamaican cuisine is known for its bold and vibrant flavors, and one dish that perfectly encapsulates this is Jamaican chicken soup. This homemade soup is a classic and authentic Caribbean favorite that is easy to make and will warm your soul with every spoonful.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a detailed Jamaican chicken soup recipe that will transport you to the warm and sunny beaches of Jamaica. We’ll highlight the key ingredients, steps to follow, and tips for making the best Jamaican chicken soup you’ve ever tasted. So, put on some reggae music and let’s get cooking.

Key Takeaways:

  • Jamaican chicken soup is an authentic Caribbean classic that is easy to make and full of bold flavors.
  • This homemade soup incorporates a variety of aromatic vegetables, chicken, and spices like thyme, allspice, and scotch bonnet pepper.
  • Adding traditional Jamaican dumplings to the soup gives it a hearty and satisfying element.
  • Jamaican chicken soup is versatile and can be made gluten-free or with alternative proteins like beef or red peas.
  • By following our recipe, you can recreate this classic Jamaican soup in your own kitchen and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.

Ingredients for Authentic Jamaican Chicken Soup Recipe

To make the best Jamaican chicken soup, you’ll need to gather some essential ingredients. Here is a complete list of what you’ll need:

IngredientsAmount
Chicken breast1 pound
Chicken thighs1 pound
Chicken stock8 cups
Carrots2 large, chopped
Sweet potatoes2 medium, peeled and chopped
Butternut squash2 cups, peeled and chopped
Scotch bonnet pepper1 whole pepper
Thyme sprigs4 sprigs
Allspice1 tsp
Dumplings1 cup
Grace Cock Soup Mix2 tbsp

Make sure you have all these ingredients before starting the recipe. You can find the Grace Cock Soup Mix at your local Caribbean grocery store or online.

Making the Chicken Soup Broth Base for Classic Jamaican Flavor

In order to create the rich flavor that defines Jamaican chicken soup, it’s important to start with a flavorful base. Here’s what you’ll need:

IngredientsAmount
Chicken skin-on1 lb
Chicken broth4 cups
Thyme sprigs2
Scotch bonnet pepper1

Begin by placing the chicken, chicken broththyme sprigs, and scotch bonnet pepper in a large pot and simmering over medium heat for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through and tender.

The skin-on chicken adds depth of flavor to the soup, and using chicken broth instead of water provides a more savory base. The thyme sprigs and scotch bonnet pepper are key ingredients for developing the authentic Jamaican taste.

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and allow it to cool slightly. Remove the skin and shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces. Set aside until later in the recipe.

Note: If you prefer a milder spice level, you can remove the seeds from the scotch bonnet pepper before adding it to the pot. However, for the authentic Jamaican flavor, leave the seeds in.

Adding Vegetables, Spices, and Flavour to Your Jamaican Soup

Now it’s time to add the vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices to the Jamaican chicken soup. These ingredients elevate the dish’s flavor profile and provide essential nutrients.

Ingredients:Quantity:
Carrots (peeled and sliced)2
Sweet Potatoes (peeled and cubed)2
Butternut Squash (peeled and cubed)1/2
Scotch Bonnet Pepper (seeded and diced)1
Thyme Sprigs3-4
Allspice1 tsp

First, add the carrotssweet potatoes, and butternut squash to the pot and stir. These vegetables will provide a hearty and filling base for the soup.

Next, add the allspice, thyme sprigs, and scotch bonnet pepper to the pot. These flavorful spices will provide the soup with an authentic Caribbean taste.

Tip: Be careful when handling scotch bonnet peppers as they are very spicy. It’s best to wear gloves when seeding and dicing them to avoid irritation.

Let the vegetables and spices simmer in the pot for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender.

How to Make Jamaican Dumplings for Your Chicken Soup

No Jamaican chicken soup recipe is complete without the addition of traditional dumplings. These doughy balls provide a satisfying and filling element to the soup. Here’s how to make them:

  1. Gather the ingredients: To make Jamaican dumplings, you’ll need flour, water, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Knead the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add water while kneading the dough until the consistency is smooth and pliable.
  3. Shape the dumplings: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
  4. Cook the dumplings: In a pot of boiling salted water, add the dumplings. Lower the heat, and allow the dumplings to simmer for 10-15 minutes. Then remove them from the water and set aside.

Now, your Jamaican dumplings are ready to be added to the soup. Simply drop them into the pot during the last few minutes of cooking and allow them to simmer until they are fully cooked.

Cooking and Serving Saturday’s Homemade Jamaican Chicken Soup

After preparing the base of the soup, it’s time to add the vegetables and spices. Add the carrots, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash to the pot, along with a sprinkle of allspice, a thyme sprig, and a scotch bonnet pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes.

While the soup is simmering, it’s time to make the spinners. Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them into thin circles. Lightly sprinkle them with flour and add them to the soup. Cook for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the spinners are tender.

Tip:For an even heartier soup, you can add other vegetables like yams, corn, or cabbage.

Once the soup is ready, it’s time to serve. Remove the scotch bonnet pepper and thyme sprig, and use a spinner to mix the soup. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with more thyme leaves.

Tasty tip: If you want a creamier soup, you can add a can of coconut milk during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or gathering. It’s best served hot and fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for later enjoyment.

Tip:To reheat the soup, simply add it to a pot and simmer for a few minutes until heated through. You can also freeze the soup in individual portions for a quick and easy meal later on.

Spinner Recipe

The Jamaican dumplings, or spinners, are a classic addition to this soup. Here’s how to make them:

  1. In a bowl, mix 2 cups of flour with 1 teaspoon of salt.
  2. Add water in small increments until a stiff dough is formed. Knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth.
  3. Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them into thin circles.
  4. Add the spinners to the soup and cook for 10 minutes, or until they are tender.

These soft and fluffy dumplings add a satisfying texture to the soup and are a favorite amongst Jamaicans.

Love This Jamaican Leftover Soup: Tips for Next-Day Enjoyment

Congratulations on making a delicious pot of Jamaican chicken soup! You’re sure to have leftovers, so here are our tips on how to store and reheat them to savor the flavors all over again.

Freezing Leftover Soup

If you’re not planning on eating the leftover soup within a few days, it’s best to freeze it. Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Be sure to label the container with the date and contents. The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Leftover Soup

When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, remove it from the freezer and allow it to defrost in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat the soup, pour it into a pot and warm it over medium heat. Be sure to stir the soup occasionally to ensure that it heats evenly. Once the soup is heated through, it’s ready to enjoy!

Savoring the Flavors

As with any soup, the flavors of Jamaican chicken soup will deepen and develop over time. We recommend savoring the flavors by reheating and enjoying the soup over several days. You’ll be surprised at how the different flavors meld together and intensify.

Variations, Tips, and Using Cock Soup Mix in Your Jamaican Soup Recipe

While the classic Jamaican chicken soup recipe is already delicious, there are many variations that you can try to switch things up or accommodate dietary restrictions. Here are a few ideas:

Gluten-Free Option

If you need to make the soup gluten-free, simply replace the flour used in the dumplings with a gluten-free flour blend such as rice flour or almond flour.

Chicken and Pumpkin Soup

If you want to add some extra veggies to your soup, try adding pumpkin or squash. Cut the pumpkin into cubes and add it into the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Beef Soup

If you prefer beef over chicken, you can substitute the chicken for beef stew meat. Simmer the beef for 2-3 hours or until it’s tender before adding the vegetables.

Red Peas Soup

Red peas soup is another classic Jamaican soup. To make it, replace the chicken with stewed beef and add kidney beans and coconut milk to the soup. It’s a hearty and flavorful alternative to chicken soup.

Jamaican Spinners

Spinners are small dumplings made with flour and water. While they’re not traditionally added to chicken soup, they add an extra dimension of flavor and texture. To make spinners, mix flour and water until it forms a dough. Shape the dough into small balls and drop them directly into the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Remember, the key to a good soup is fresh ingredients and seasoning to taste based on your preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make the recipe your own!

Love This Recipe? Dive Deeper into Jamaican Recipes and Cuisine

If you’re a fan of the flavorful Jamaican chicken soup recipe, you’ll love exploring the wider world of Jamaican cuisine. From hearty stews to spicy curries, Jamaican cooking is rich in history and culture.

Traditional Jamaican Recipes

Jamaica is known for its bold and distinct flavors, which are a result of the country’s unique blend of cultural influences. Traditional Jamaican recipes like Jamaican stew peas are a staple in the cuisine, made with red kidney beans, salted pork, and coconut milk. Other classic dishes include curry goat, jerk chicken, and ackee and saltfish.

Jamaican Roots

Jamaican cuisine is deeply rooted in the country’s history and culture. Its flavors are a reflection of the diverse groups of people who have lived on the island over the centuries, including Indigenous Taínos, Spanish, British, and African slaves. Today, Jamaican cuisine is an essential part of the country’s identity and is celebrated around the world.

Caribbean or West Indian Food

While Jamaican cuisine is distinct, there are similarities between other Caribbean or West Indian foods. Many dishes throughout the region use similar ingredients like plantains, yams, and coconut milk. You may find Jamaican-inspired dishes at Caribbean restaurants or food trucks in your area.

Jamaican Restaurant

If you’re curious to try more Jamaican dishes, consider visiting a local Jamaican restaurant. You’ll find an array of dishes that showcase the bold and spicy flavors of Jamaican cuisine. Some popular options include oxtail stew, curry chicken, and festival – a type of fried dumpling.

Conclusion

There you have it, folks! The best Jamaican chicken soup recipe that will warm your heart and soul. This hearty chicken soup is perfect for those chilly evenings or when you need a comforting bowl of goodness. And the best part? It’s an easy recipe that you can make in your own kitchen!

Trust us, once you try this homemade Jamaican chicken soup, you will love this recipe as much as we do. The blend of authentic Jamaican flavors will leave your taste buds begging for more. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and savor the taste of the Caribbean!

Best Jamaican Chicken Soup Recipe

With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this Jamaican chicken soup is the perfect recipe to add to your repertoire. Impress your family and friends with this traditional Jamaican dish and enjoy its warm and comforting flavors.

Homemade Jamaican Chicken Soup

Made entirely from scratch, this homemade Jamaican chicken soup is a true labor of love. From the simmering of the chicken to the making of the dumplings, each step is carefully crafted to ensure it’s the best Jamaican chicken soup you’ll ever taste.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and start brewing up a pot of this classic Jamaican soup. We guarantee you won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This Jamaican Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use boneless chicken breast or thighs for a more convenient option.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Yes, if you enjoy some heat, you can add more scotch bonnet pepper or even some hot sauce to spice up the soup to your liking.

Can I make this soup vegetarian-friendly?

Definitely! You can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead for a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does it take to cook the soup?

The soup should simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.

Can I freeze the leftover soup?

Absolutely! You can freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Can I substitute the dumplings with something else?

If you prefer, you can replace the dumplings with pasta or rice for a different twist on the recipe.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use gluten-free flour for the dumplings, and double-check that your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.

How can I add more vegetables to the soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or okra to the soup for an extra nutritious boost.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply follow the instructions for preparing the soup base and then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours until the chicken is cooked through.

Where can I find scotch bonnet peppers?

Scotch bonnet peppers can typically be found in specialty grocery stores, international markets, or you can try growing your own if you have a green thumb!

Jamaican Chicken Soup

With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this Jamaican chicken soup is the perfect recipe to add to your repertoire.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Jamaican
Keyword: Jamaican Chicken Soup
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Chicken Breast
  • 1 lb Chicken Thighs
  • 8 cups Chicken Stock
  • 2 Large Carrots chopped
  • 2 Medium Sweet Potatoes peeled and chopped
  • 2 cups Butternut Squash peeled and chopped
  • 1 whole Scotch Bonnet Pepper
  • 4 sprigs Thyme
  • 1 tsp Allspice
  • 1 cup dumplings
  • 2 T Grace Cock Soup Mix
  • 2 cups Flour
  • 1 tsp Salt

Instructions

  • Begin by placing the chicken, chicken broth, thyme sprigs, and scotch bonnet pepper in a large pot and simmering over medium heat for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through and tender.
  • The skin-on chicken adds depth of flavor to the soup, and using chicken broth instead of water provides a more savory base. The thyme sprigs and scotch bonnet pepper are key ingredients for developing the authentic Jamaican taste.
  • Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and allow it to cool slightly. Remove the skin and shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces. Set aside until later in the recipe.
  • First, add the carrots, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash to the pot and stir. These vegetables will provide a hearty and filling base for the soup.
  • Next, add the allspice, thyme sprigs, and scotch bonnet pepper to the pot. These flavorful spices will provide the soup with an authentic Caribbean taste. Tip: Be careful when handling scotch bonnet peppers as they are very spicy. It’s best to wear gloves when seeding and dicing them to avoid irritation.
  • Let the vegetables and spices simmer in the pot for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender.
  • To make Jamaican dumplings, you’ll need flour, water, and a pinch of salt.
  • Knead the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add water while kneading the dough until the consistency is smooth and pliable.
  • Shape the dumplings: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
  • Cook the dumplings: In a pot of boiling salted water, add the dumplings. Lower the heat, and allow the dumplings to simmer for 10-15 minutes. Then remove them from the water and set aside.
  • Once the soup is ready, it’s time to serve. Remove the scotch bonnet pepper and thyme sprig, and use a spinner to mix the soup. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with more thyme leaves.

Notes

Note: Be careful with the scotch bonnet pepper! For less heat, you can remove the pepper midway through cooking, but remember not to burst it.
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