Jamaican Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe (Bully Beef for Two)

Whenever I crave a comforting, no-fuss dinner, one of my go-to meals is Jamaican corned beef and cabbage. This isn’t the slow-boiled corned beef of Irish tradition, but a bright, spicy, fast skillet dish using canned corned beef (bully beef / bullie beef), cabbage, aromatics, and heat. It’s a Caribbean twist that’s rich in flavour and nostalgia.

I grew up eating this on rushed weeknights when my household needed something fast, filling, and foolproof. Now, I make it for two, most of the time with a side of Jamaican fried dumplings, boiled dumplings or even as a sandwich, or white rice. It’s still one of our favourite budget-friendly meals.

What Makes Jamaican Corned Beef and Cabbage Different?

Corned Beef and Cabbage might sound Irish, but this Jamaican Corned Beef and Cabbage version is a spicy, savoury dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Unlike the Irish version (which uses cured brisket), Jamaican-style corned beef comes from a can, usually Grace, Lasco, or Cool Runnings, and is crumbled into a sauté of cabbage, onions, peppers, and thyme. It’s a bit salty, spicy, and slightly sweet, thanks to a touch of ketchup or tomato. No slow-cooking, no slicing or chopping – just fast, flavourful comfort food.

Here’s what sets the Jamaican version apart:

• Uses bully beef / bullie beef (canned corned beef) rather than raw brisket.
• Much quicker to prepare: no long boiling times.
• Features bold seasonings (scotch bonnet, thyme, tomato, pepper) that add heat and island flair.
• More saucy and loose vs. the denser “solid” boiled dinner style.

So the Jamaican Style Corned Beef, or bully beef & cabbage, recipe delivers precisely what they expect: speed and island flavours.

Why You’ll Love Jamaican Corned Beef and Cabbage

• Quick and easy: Ready in about 20 minutes.
• One-pan meal: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavour.
• Somewhat Traditional but versatile: Make it classic, or add your own twist with extra veggies or a splash more heat.
• Perfect for two: This recipe is scaled for two generous portions, but doubles easily for family or meal prep.

Ingredients for Two Servings

• 1 (12 oz / 340g) can of corned beef (Grace, Cool Runnings, Lasco, or Jamaican Country Style all work well)
• ½ medium green cabbage, shredded
• 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 2 Roma tomatoes, chopped
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon ketchup (adds the perfect hint of tang and sweetness)
• ½–1 teaspoon Scotch Bonnet pepper sauce or hot sauce (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step: How to Make Corned Beef and Cabbage Jamaican Style

1. Prep all your ingredients before you cook—this dish comes together quickly, so have everything ready.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch pot over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté bell pepper and onion for about 3 minutes, until beginning to soften.
4. Add the garlic, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add chopped Roma tomatoes and thyme, then give it a good stir.
6. Break up the corned beef with a fork and add it to the pan. Stir until everything is well mixed.
7. Toss in the shredded cabbage and stir for 3–5 minutes, letting it wilt but still hold a little bite.
8. Add ketchup and hot sauce, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper (the corned beef is salty, so go light at first).
9. Reduce the heat to medium, cover, and cook for another 3–5 minutes, until everything is heated through and the flavours come together.
10. Serve hot with your favourite side—see suggestions below!

What is Bully Beef?

You’ve likely heard Jamaicans talk about Bully Beef or Bullie Beef; they’re referring to canned corned beef. Bully Beef and Cabbage is especially popular during hurricane season because people tend to stock up on canned and non-perishable foods as a preparation for the stormy seasons. You’ll often hear it called Jamaican Style Corned Beef or just plain corned beef and cabbage, but don’t let the names confuse you. They’re all delicious!

Tips for the Best Bully Beef & Cabbage

• Brands: Grace Corned Beef, Cool Runnings, Lasco, and Jamaican Country Style Corned Beef are all authentic. Each has a slightly different flavour, so try a few and pick your favourite!
• Heat level: A little Scotch Bonnet goes a long way. Adjust the volume up or down to your taste.
• Make it your own: Add a handful of mixed frozen vegetables, sliced carrots, even corn for a twist.
• Leftovers: Pack into a sandwich, wrap, or serve over rice the next day—it’s even better after the flavours meld!
• Canned corned beef tip: The key on the side can be fiddly—go slow and use a sturdy fork to get all the goodness out.

Side Dishes for Jamaican Corned Beef and Cabbage

This dish is wonderfully flexible—serve it with:

• Jamaican Fried Dumplings (these are a must! Find the best dumpling recipe here)
• White rice, rice and peas, (bully beef and rice)
• Boiled green bananas or boiled yams
• Festival, roasted breadfruit, or plain sandwich bread.

Add some perfectly boiled cornmeal dumpling or a crisp green salad on the side for a complete Jamaican country-style meal.

Personal Notes

Over the years, I’ve learned to adjust the cabbage ratio depending on my mood, and sometimes extra veggies, sometimes extra beef. Don’t skip the ketchup because it can truly bring out that unbeatable Jamaican flavour! If you love a dish with some kick, try adding more pepper sauce or slicing up extra Scotch Bonnets (just mind your fingers!).

Want your Jamaican Corned Beef and Cabbage

This Jamaican Corned Beef and Cabbage recipe combines the heartiness of cabbage with the bold, seasoned flavours of bully beef, all without the lengthy cooking time of traditional boiled dinners. Serve it with fried dumplings, rice, plantains, or mix and match sides to your taste.

I hope this becomes a go-to in your rotation. Feel free to tweak spice, texture, or sides as you see fit.