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 stew meat, cut into chunks; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, diced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups white rice; 4 cups water; 1 tablespoon butter; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and flavorful Jamaican Beef Stew served over a bed of fluffy rice, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2025-12-20T20:31:02.045Z

This Jamaican Beef Stew is a comforting dish that captures the essence of Caribbean cooking with its rich flavors and tender meat.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a family meal
A delightful blend of spices that awaken your taste buds
Easy to prepare, yet impressively delicious

      

A Taste of Jamaica

Jamaican cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and bold spices, and this Beef Stew is no exception. The combination of allspice, thyme, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar creates a symphony of tastes that is both comforting and exhilarating. Each bite offers a taste of the Caribbean, transporting you to sun-soaked shores and lively street markets filled with mouthwatering aromas.

This stew is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings people together. Traditionally served at family gatherings and special occasions, it evokes warmth and togetherness. Whether you’re enjoying it with loved ones or sharing it at a potluck, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Beef Stew

For a truly tender beef stew, it’s essential to choose the right cut of meat. Chuck roast is an excellent option due to its balance of fat and meat, which breaks down beautifully during the slow cooking process. Always brown the meat before simmering; this step not only enhances the flavor but also gives your stew a rich color.

Don't rush the cooking time! Allowing the stew to simmer gently for at least 1.5 hours ensures that the beef becomes fork-tender and the flavors meld together beautifully. If you have extra time, consider letting it simmer even longer for an even deeper flavor profile. Just keep an eye on the liquid level, adding more broth if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Beef Stew is best served over a generous helping of fluffy rice, which absorbs the rich, savory sauce beautifully. For added texture and flavor, consider garnishing your stew with freshly chopped parsley or scallions. A side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad can also complement this hearty dish, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich stew.

For those who enjoy a little heat, serve the stew with a side of spicy jerk sauce or pickled vegetables. This adds an exciting kick that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the stew. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish will surely be a standout on your table.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious Jamaican Beef Stew:

Ingredients for Jamaican Beef Stew

2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 cup beef broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for Rice

2 cups white rice
4 cups water
1 tablespoon butter
Salt to taste

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Jamaican Beef Stew with Rice:

Prepare the Beef Stew

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

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back to the pot along with the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, thyme, allspice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Stew

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

Cook the Rice

While the stew is simmering, prepare the rice. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the rice, butter, and salt. Cover and reduce heat to low, cooking for about 18 minutes or until the rice is fluffy.

Serve

Once the stew is done, serve it over a bed of rice. Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Beef Stew with Rice!

Enjoy your meal and the wonderful flavors of Jamaica!

Nutritional Benefits

This Jamaican Beef Stew is not only delicious but also packs a nutritious punch. Beef is a great source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. The addition of veggies like carrots and potatoes adds vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dish, making it a well-rounded meal that satisfies your hunger while nourishing your body.

Moreover, the spices used in this recipe, such as thyme and allspice, are known for their health benefits. Thyme has antimicrobial properties, while allspice is rich in antioxidants. Incorporating these ingredients into your diet can support overall health and wellness, making this stew a wholesome choice for any occasion.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Jamaican Beef Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to deepen and improve as they meld together, making the leftovers just as enjoyable as the first serving. For longer storage, consider freezing the stew in individual portions, which can last for up to three months.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to maintain the stew's consistency. Avoid boiling it too rapidly, as this can make the beef tough. With these simple tips, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of Jamaican Beef Stew well beyond the initial meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken or pork, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can brown the meat and sauté the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.