
Motherland: A Jamaican Cookbook By Melissa Thompson
500 years of flavor, history, and resilience in Jamaican cooking Motherland is a powerful celebration of Jamaican cuisine—its bold flavors, complex history, and enduring spirit. Written by award-winning food writer Melissa Thompson, this cookbook weaves together 80 vibrant recipes with over five centuries of cultural influence, from the island’s Indigenous Taino roots to African legacy dishes, colonial impact, and immigrant contributions from India and China. Inside you'll find classics like Jerk Pork, Ackee & Saltfish, and Braised Oxtail alongside fresh takes that draw on Jamaica’s abundant natural larder. More than a cookbook, Motherland is a deeply researched, beautifully written story of survival, resistance, and creativity—told through food. Who’s it for? Perfect for home cooks craving bold Caribbean flavors, history buffs who love food storytelling, or anyone seeking a deeper connection to Jamaican heritage. Spices to pair with this cookbook: Allspice (Whole): Essential to