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Jamaican Turn Cornmeal Recipe
Sophia smith

Jamaican Turn Cornmeal Recipe

Whenever I’m craving a hearty, flavorful Jamaican comfort food, I always turn to this Turn Cornmeal recipe. Packed with saltfish, smoky bacon, coconut milk, and fresh herbs, this creamy dish is a one-pot wonder that fills the kitchen with the aroma of authentic island cooking. It’s savory, rich, and has just the right kick of Scotch bonnet pepper to warm things up.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Dish, Side Dish
Cuisine: Jamaican, Caribbean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Video Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Saltfish (picked, boiled, and deboned)
  • 2 strips
  • 1 cup Refined Cornmeal
  • 1 cup Coconut milk
  • 1 1/4 cup Water
Vegetables & Seasonings

  • 1/2 cup Onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp Sweet Bell Pepper (minced)
  • 1/2 cup Plummy Tomatoes (diced)
  • 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme leaves
  • 1 stalk Scallion
  • 1/4 piece Scotch Bonnet Pepper (or more if desired)
Flavor Boosters

  • 1 tbsp Butter
  • 1 tbsp Coconut Oil
  • 1/4 tsp Seasoned Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Video

Notes

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this authentic Jamaican Turn Cornmeal recipe, I always like to have these tools ready:
  1. Medium Pot or Skillet with Lid – for cooking the saltfish, bacon, and simmering the cornmeal.
  2. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – essential for stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  3. Mixing Bowls – to prep the coconut milk and cornmeal mixtures before cooking.
  4. Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – for chopping vegetables and herbs.
  5. Measuring Cups & Spoons – to ensure the right balance of flavors.
Having these simple tools on hand makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.