Manish Water

Manish Water Recipe from Jamaica with Goat, Chicken, and Vegetables

Region / culture: Jamaica | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Manish Water is a traditional Jamaican soup made with goat head and various vegetables. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a comforting meal.

History

Manish Water has its roots in Jamaican cuisine and is a popular dish in the country. It is believed to have originated from the Maroons, who were descendants of African slaves in Jamaica. The dish was traditionally made with the head of a goat, which was considered a delicacy.

Ingredients

1 goat head, chopped
garlic, to taste
Escallion, to taste
thyme, to taste
pimiento seeds, to taste
salt, to taste
1 whole green pepper
black pepper
1 package of chicken noodle
3 – 6 green bananas
0.5 lb (227 g) yam
3 small Irish potatoes
flour, for dumpling
2 cho cho (optional)
1 whole scotch bonnet pepper

How to prepare

Wash the chopped goat head.
Put the chopped goat head in a large pot (pressure cooker is best) with enough water to cover the meat.
Add 3 tsp of salt, 8-10 pimiento seeds, and 5 crushed garlic cloves. Let it cook.
Cook on medium/high heat until the meat is tender.
Add more water and 1 package of chicken noodle.
Peel and cut up potatoes and cho chos, then add them to the pot.
Peel the green bananas (or cut off the top and bottom and slit the skin).
Add the banana peels and yam when the bananas are almost cooked.
Add dumplings.
When almost done, add black pepper, thyme, a couple of pimiento seeds, escallion, and a whole Scotch bonnet pepper (do not let it burst open). Let it simmer.
Serve hot.

Variations

Add more vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin, or cabbage for added nutrition.
Use chicken or beef instead of goat head for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use a pressure cooker to cook the goat head faster and more tender.

- Add the vegetables in stages to ensure they are cooked to perfection.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Manish Water hot with a side of Jamaican hard dough bread or bammy for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Use a pressure cooker to cook the goat head faster and more tender.

- Simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use beef or chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.

- Substitute plantains for bananas for a sweeter taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Manish Water can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Manish Water in a large soup bowl garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. Add a slice of lime on the side for a burst of citrus flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Manish Water with a refreshing drink such as sorrel or ginger beer for a traditional Jamaican meal experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Manish Water in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Manish Water is approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

Manish Water is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the addition of yam, potatoes, and dumplings. These ingredients provide energy and fiber to the meal.

Fats

The goat head in Manish Water provides a good amount of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids. However, it is important to trim excess fat from the meat before cooking.

Proteins

Goat meat is a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Manish Water provides a good amount of protein from the goat head.

Vitamins and minerals

Manish Water is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables used in the dish. Potatoes, yam, and bananas provide vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber.

Alergens

Manish Water may contain allergens such as gluten from the flour used for dumplings. It is important to check for any food allergies before consuming the dish.

Summary

Manish Water is a nutritious and filling dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a wholesome meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Manish Water is a flavorful and hearty Jamaican soup made with goat head and vegetables. It is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy this traditional recipe for a taste of Jamaican cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew I had to try it. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mary in Jamaica. We were sitting on her veranda, sipping on some cold lemonade, when she suddenly mentioned a traditional Jamaican dish called Manish Water.

"Manish Water?" I asked, intrigued. "What is that?"

Mary smiled, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Oh, it's a delicious Jamaican soup made with goat meat, green bananas, yam, and dumplings. It's a real treat, especially on a cool evening."

I was immediately intrigued. I had always been a lover of trying new recipes and experimenting in the kitchen. And the thought of a hearty, flavorful soup made with fresh ingredients sounded irresistible.

"Would you mind showing me how to make it?" I asked Mary, hoping she would agree.

Mary clapped her hands in delight. "Of course! I'd be happy to teach you. Let's head to the market tomorrow and gather all the ingredients we need."

The next day, Mary and I set off to the bustling market in Kingston. The air was filled with the aromas of fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices. We eagerly searched for the perfect ingredients for our Manish Water. We picked out some tender goat meat, ripe green bananas, yam, and flour for the dumplings.

Back at Mary's kitchen, we got to work. Mary guided me through each step of the recipe, explaining the importance of seasoning and cooking the ingredients just right. As the pot simmered on the stove, the rich aroma of the spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Finally, it was time to taste our creation. I ladled out a steaming bowl of Manish Water and took my first sip. The flavors exploded on my tongue – the tender goat meat, the creamy yam, the earthy green bananas, all coming together in a symphony of taste. It was unlike anything I had ever tried before.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I knew I had to learn more about Jamaican cuisine and the stories behind each dish. I spent hours talking to Mary and other locals, gathering recipes and techniques passed down through generations.

Over the years, I perfected my own version of Manish Water, adding my own twist to the traditional recipe. I experimented with different spices, herbs, and cooking methods, always striving to create the perfect bowl of soup.

I shared my love for Jamaican cuisine with friends and family, hosting dinners and gatherings where I would cook up a storm in the kitchen. Each time I made Manish Water, it was met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

As I grew older, my passion for cooking only deepened. I cherished the memories of my time in Jamaica, learning from Mary and immersing myself in the vibrant culinary culture of the island.

Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the comforting aromas of spices and herbs, I can't help but smile as I think back to that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe for Manish Water. It reminds me of the power of food to bring people together, to tell stories, and to create lasting memories.

And as I take a sip of the steaming bowl of soup in front of me, I am transported back to that veranda in Jamaica, sharing a meal with dear friends and embracing the joy of cooking. Manish Water will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the magic that happens when you follow your culinary curiosity and let the flavors of the world inspire your creations.