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 pieces; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, cubed; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon Jamaican allspice; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups beef broth; 2 bay leaves; 2 cups long-grain rice; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the vibrant flavors of Jamaica with this hearty beef stew served over a bed of fluffy rice.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-23T18:45:45.963Z

This Jamaican Beef Stew is a comforting dish that encapsulates the rich culinary heritage of Jamaica. Packed with spices and vibrant ingredients, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavor profile with a blend of authentic Jamaican spices
Tender beef that falls apart with a fork, simmered to perfection
Served with fluffy rice that absorbs all the delicious sauce

      

A Taste of Jamaica

Jamaican cuisine is known for its bold flavors and aromatic spices, and this beef stew is no exception. The combination of allspice, thyme, and tender beef creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Each bite transports you to the Caribbean, where the vibrant culture and culinary traditions blend seamlessly. Whether it's a family dinner or a special gathering, this stew will surely impress your guests and provide a taste of island life.

The use of fresh vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nutritional boost to the dish. Carrots and potatoes provide a satisfying texture while soaking up the savory juices of the stew. This recipe is a wonderful way to incorporate hearty vegetables into your meal, making it a well-rounded option for anyone looking to eat healthily without sacrificing taste.

Cooking Tips

For the best flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight with the spices before cooking. This allows the meat to absorb all the wonderful flavors, making it even more tender and delicious. You can also experiment with adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or peas to customize the stew to your liking. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, so feel free to make it your own.

When simmering the stew, keep an eye on the liquid level. If it reduces too much, add a bit more beef broth or water to maintain the desired consistency. A good stew should be hearty yet not too thick, ensuring that the rice can soak up all the delicious sauce without becoming overly soggy.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Beef Stew pairs beautifully with a side of traditional rice and peas, which adds a delightful creaminess to the dish. For a complete meal, consider serving it with fried plantains or a fresh salad. The contrasting flavors and textures will elevate your dining experience, making it even more authentic.

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or scallions, before serving. Not only does this add a pop of color to your dish, but it also enhances the overall flavor profile, making your meal visually appealing and delicious. Enjoy your culinary journey through Jamaica with every bite!

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting the cooking process for a seamless experience.

For the Stew

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, cubed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon Jamaican allspice
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups beef broth
2 bay leaves

For the Rice

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

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a delicious beef stew.

Brown the Beef

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

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Add Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot and add carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and add bay leaves.

Simmer the Stew

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

Cook the Rice

While the stew is cooking, rinse the rice under cold water. In a separate pot, bring water and salt to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18 minutes.

Serve

Once the stew is ready, serve it hot over the cooked rice. Enjoy!

Let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Nutritional Information

This Jamaican Beef Stew is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. The combination of beef and vegetables provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals essential for a balanced diet. The use of carrots and potatoes adds fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes satiety, making this dish a fulfilling option for lunch or dinner.

One serving offers a hearty meal that can keep you energized throughout the day. Pairing it with rice enhances the carbohydrate content, providing the necessary fuel for your daily activities. Overall, this stew is a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal without compromising on flavor.

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 tastier the next day. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the stew has thickened, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoy the convenience of having this hearty meal ready to go whenever you need a comforting dish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, other cuts like brisket or round can work, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this stew?

Yes, you can substitute the beef with hearty vegetables and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add Scotch bonnet pepper or cayenne pepper to taste for extra heat.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container.