
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsThis vibrant Caribbean brunch dish brings together the comforting texture of golden cornmeal dumplings with the rich, smoky flavor of turkey breast and nutritious wilted greens. The dumplings are made from a simple mixture of cornmeal and flour, creating a tender yet substantial base that soaks up the savory juices from the turkey. Fresh turkey breast is seasoned with traditional Caribbean spices including allspice, scotch bonnet heat, and aromatic herbs before being pan-seared to perfection. The dish is completed with a medley of fresh spinach and kale, quickly wilted with garlic and a splash of citrus. This one-pot preparation showcases the resourceful cooking style of Caribbean home kitchens, where simple ingredients are transformed into deeply satisfying meals. Perfect for leisurely weekend mornings or special occasion brunches, this dish offers a protein-rich, fiber-filled start to the day while celebrating the bold flavors and wholesome ingredients of island cuisine.
Instructions
step by stepIn a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup cornmeal, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually add 3/4 cup warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Let rest for 10 minutes.
While dough rests, season 500g turkey breast pieces with 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Rub seasonings into the meat thoroughly.
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned turkey pieces and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add 2 cups chopped spinach and 2 cups chopped kale to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until wilted, stirring occasionally.
While greens cook, shape the rested dough into 8-10 small oval dumplings, about 2 inches long.
In a separate large saucepan, bring 6 cups of salted water to a boil. Gently drop dumplings into boiling water. Cook for 12-15 minutes until they float to the surface and are cooked through.
Drain dumplings and transfer to serving plates. Top with wilted greens and sliced turkey breast.
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the entire dish and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
Cornmeal Dumplings with Smoked Turkey and Greens
Hearty Caribbean brunch featuring fluffy cornmeal dumplings served alongside tender smoked turkey breast and wilted greens, seasoned with island spices and fresh herbs for a satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients
Dumplings
- 1/2 cups flour, all-purpose
Protein
- 500 grams turkey-breast, cut into 4 pieces
Greens
- 2 cups spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cups kale, stems removed, chopped
Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Cooking Fat
- 3 tablespoons olive-oil, divided
Seasonings
- 1 1/2 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
- 1/2 teaspoons cayenne, ground
- 1 teaspoons paprika, ground
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
Herbs
- 1 teaspoons thyme, dried
Finishing
- 2 pieces lime, juiced
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoons parsley, chopped