Jamaican Beef Stew With Rice

Name: Jamaican Beef Stew With Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 2 teaspoons thyme; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole, for heat); 2 cups long-grain rice; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon butter

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Jamaican Beef Stew With Rice is a flavorful and hearty dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Caribbean to your table.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:09:51.724Z

This Jamaican Beef Stew is a classic dish that showcases the rich flavors and spices of Jamaican cuisine. Perfectly tender beef is slow-cooked with a medley of vegetables and aromatic herbs, resulting in a comforting meal that is sure to please.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavors that warm the soul
Perfectly tender beef simmered to perfection
A delightful mix of spices that adds a Caribbean twist

      

The Essence of Jamaican Cuisine

Jamaican cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, influenced by the island's diverse cultural heritage. At the heart of this culinary tradition is the use of fresh ingredients and bold spices that create dishes bursting with flavor. Jamaican Beef Stew epitomizes this approach, combining tender beef with a medley of vegetables and a unique blend of spices that provide a warm, inviting aroma. This dish is a celebration of the Caribbean spirit, making it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

What sets Jamaican Beef Stew apart is its incredible depth of flavor, achieved through slow cooking and the careful balance of spices. The allspice and thyme bring a distinct warmth, while the Scotch bonnet pepper adds a kick that tantalizes the taste buds. Together, they create a hearty stew that not only nourishes but also evokes the sunny vibes of the Caribbean, making each bite a delightful experience.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Stew

The key to a successful beef stew lies in the cooking technique. Searing the beef at the beginning creates a rich, caramelized crust that locks in flavor and moisture. This step is crucial, as it enhances the overall taste of the stew and contributes to a more complex flavor profile. Moreover, the fond (the browned bits left in the pot) adds a depth of flavor when deglazed with the vegetables.

Simmering the stew for an extended period allows the beef to become incredibly tender while the flavors meld together beautifully. This low and slow cooking method ensures that the stew develops a rich consistency and that each ingredient contributes its essence to the final dish. Patience is key here, as the longer it simmers, the more delicious it becomes.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Beef Stew is best served over a bed of fluffy rice, which absorbs the delicious broth and complements the hearty stew perfectly. Long-grain rice is an excellent choice, as it remains light and fluffy, providing a wonderful contrast to the rich stew. You can also serve it with traditional sides such as fried plantains or steamed vegetables to add a refreshing touch to the meal.

Don't forget to garnish your dish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for an added burst of color and flavor. A squeeze of lime can also elevate the dish, bringing a zesty finish that brightens the overall taste. This stew is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that invites you to savor the rich flavors of Jamaica.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
2 teaspoons thyme
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole, for heat)

For the Rice

2 cups long-grain rice
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

Sear the Beef

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until the onions are translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Add the seared beef back into the pot, along with the carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, allspice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Add the Scotch bonnet pepper (do not cut it) and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 90 minutes or until the beef is tender.

Prepare the Rice

While the stew is cooking, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a separate pot, combine the rice, water, salt, and butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

Serve

Once the stew is ready and the beef is tender, remove the Scotch bonnet pepper. Serve the stew hot over a bed of fluffy rice.

Tips for Perfecting Your Stew

To enhance the flavor of your Jamaican Beef Stew, consider marinating the beef overnight with the spices and some lime juice. This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps to tenderize it, resulting in an even more succulent stew. Additionally, feel free to adjust the level of heat by modifying the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper, or even omitting it if you prefer a milder dish.

Another tip is to include a variety of vegetables based on what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or even corn can add unique flavors and textures to your stew. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Jamaican Beef Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if necessary to loosen the consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove. This makes for a quick and satisfying meal option when time is short.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but cooking time may vary.

→ Is it necessary to use Scotch bonnet pepper?

While it's traditional for heat, you can substitute with jalapeños or omit it for a milder stew.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen when allowed to sit. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Beef Stew?

In addition to rice, you can serve it with dumplings or fried plantains for a complete meal.