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 1-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, diced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon browning sauce; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups cooked rice; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the rich flavors of Jamaica with this hearty beef stew served over fluffy rice. Perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:36:44.243Z

This Jamaican Beef Stew is a comforting dish that brings a taste of the Caribbean to your table. The vibrant spices and tender beef create a hearty meal that pairs perfectly with rice.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that awaken your senses
Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
Perfectly paired with fluffy rice for a filling meal

      

The Essence of Jamaican Cuisine

Jamaican cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, influenced by a rich history of indigenous, African, European, and Asian culinary traditions. This diversity is beautifully showcased in dishes like Jamaican beef stew, where spices and fresh ingredients come together to create a comforting meal that warms the soul. The use of aromatic herbs like thyme and allspice not only enhances the flavor but also brings a unique character that is emblematic of Jamaican cooking.

The balance of savory and sweet in Jamaican dishes is a hallmark of the island's culinary style. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the tender beef that absorbs the spices' essence to the vegetables that add both texture and natural sweetness. This stew is a perfect representation of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a hearty, satisfying dish.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Stew

To achieve the best results with your Jamaican beef stew, it's essential to use a good cut of meat. Beef chuck is an excellent choice because it becomes incredibly tender when simmered slowly. Make sure to brown the meat well to develop a rich flavor base before adding the vegetables and liquids. This step is crucial as it enhances the stew's overall depth and complexity.

Don't rush the simmering process. Allow the stew to cook low and slow for at least 1.5 hours. This not only tenderizes the beef but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you have time, consider letting the stew sit for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator; the flavors will intensify even further, making it even more delicious when reheated.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican beef stew is traditionally served with fluffy white rice, which acts as the perfect canvas to soak up the rich, flavorful gravy. You can also serve it with rice and peas, a classic Jamaican side dish made with kidney beans and coconut milk, for an authentic experience. The combination of textures makes every bite satisfying and enjoyable.

For an extra touch, garnish your stew with freshly chopped parsley or scallions. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also brings a fresh note that complements the hearty flavors of the stew. Pair it with a cold drink, such as a refreshing ginger beer, to complete your meal and transport your taste buds straight to Jamaica.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon browning sauce
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

4 cups cooked rice
Chopped parsley for garnish

Mix all the ingredients well before cooking to ensure the beef is well-seasoned.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Brown the Beef

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

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, beef broth, soy sauce, browning sauce, thyme, allspice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Serve

Serve the stew over cooked rice and garnish with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Beef Stew!

Nutritional Benefits

This Jamaican beef stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The beef provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins such as B12 and iron, which are vital for energy and overall health. The addition of vegetables like carrots and potatoes adds fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, making this dish a balanced option for dinner.

Using homemade beef broth can further enhance the nutritional profile of your stew. It’s rich in minerals and can support joint health due to its collagen content. By preparing your broth, you also have control over the sodium levels, making it a healthier choice compared to store-bought options.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Jamaican beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more enjoyable the next day. For longer storage, consider freezing the stew in portions. It can last up to three months in the freezer and is perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. You can also add a splash of beef broth or water if the stew has thickened too much during storage. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can unevenly heat the stew and affect the texture of the meat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round, but chuck is recommended for tenderness.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this stew?

Yes, you can substitute beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, it freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.