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 tablespoon fresh thyme; 1 tablespoon allspice; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 cups white rice; 4 cups water; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the rich flavors of Jamaican Beef Stew served with fluffy rice. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings and will transport your taste buds to the Caribbean.

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:06:01.334Z

This Jamaican Beef Stew is a family favorite, bursting with spices that create a warm, inviting meal. The combination of tender beef and vegetables in a rich gravy, paired with rice, makes it a comforting dish for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that warm the soul
Tender beef that practically melts in your mouth
Perfectly paired with fluffy, steaming rice

      

A Taste of the Caribbean

Jamaican Beef Stew is a beloved dish that embodies the vibrant culture and rich culinary traditions of the Caribbean. Its unique blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and exhilarating. Each bite transports you to sun-soaked beaches and lively island festivities, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.

The heart of this dish lies in the slow-cooked beef, which absorbs the aromatic spices and becomes incredibly tender. Coupled with the colorful medley of vegetables, this stew not only satisfies the palate but also provides a nourishing meal that everyone will enjoy. It's a recipe that showcases the essence of Jamaican cooking—bold, flavorful, and full of life.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Jamaican Beef Stew, consider using a good cut of beef stew meat that has some marbling. This fat will render during cooking, keeping the meat moist and enhancing the overall flavor of the stew. Searing the beef until browned is crucial; this step locks in the juices and adds depth to the dish through the Maillard reaction.

Don’t rush the simmering process. Allow the stew to cook on low heat for at least an hour to ensure the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully. If you have time, preparing the stew a day in advance can elevate the dish even further, as the flavors develop and intensify overnight.

Serving Suggestions

While this Jamaican Beef Stew is delicious on its own, serving it with fluffy white rice creates a complete meal that is both filling and satisfying. The rice absorbs the savory broth, making every bite delightful. For an authentic touch, you might consider adding some fried plantains or a side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.

Don’t forget to garnish the stew with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates the dish visually and adds an aromatic finish. Pair it with a chilled Jamaican beer or a fruity rum punch to enhance the Caribbean experience.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
1 tablespoon allspice
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce

For the Rice

2 cups white rice
4 cups water
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon salt

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.

Cooking Instructions

Sear the Beef

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

Sauté Aromatics

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

Add Spices and Vegetables

Stir in the thyme, allspice, salt, black pepper, carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper. Cook for a few minutes until vegetables start to soften.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 1 hour, or until beef is tender.

Cook the Rice

While the stew simmers, rinse the rice under cold water. In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice, butter, and salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes, or until rice is cooked.

Serve

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

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

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, making it even more delicious when reheated. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if the stew has thickened too much.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the stew. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

This Jamaican Beef Stew is not only hearty and flavorful but also packed with nutrients. The beef provides a great source of protein and essential vitamins such as B12, while the variety of vegetables adds dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Carrots and potatoes contribute antioxidants, promoting overall health.

Moreover, the spices used in this stew, like thyme and allspice, have their own health benefits. Thyme is known for its antimicrobial properties, while allspice can aid in digestion. Enjoying this dish allows you to indulge in comfort food while also nourishing your body.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can use chicken or pork instead of beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Ensure to use gluten-free soy sauce and check the broth for gluten-free labeling.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just brown the meat first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's great on its own, but you can also serve it with plantains or a side salad.