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 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon allspice; 1 tablespoon thyme; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups jasmine rice; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and flavorful Jamaican Beef Stew served with fluffy rice, perfect for a comforting meal.

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2025-12-23T17:42:36.006Z

This Jamaican Beef Stew is a traditional dish that brings together tender beef, aromatic spices, and vegetables, simmered to perfection. The rich flavors and comforting textures make it a family favorite.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that bring warmth and depth to every bite
Tender beef that melts in your mouth
Perfectly paired with fluffy rice for a complete meal

      

A Taste of Jamaica

Jamaican cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, reflecting the island's rich cultural heritage. This Jamaican Beef Stew is a perfect embodiment of that tradition, combining the warmth of spices with the heartiness of beef. Each ingredient sings in harmony, showcasing the island's bounty, and making each bite a delightful experience. The use of allspice, a hallmark of Jamaican cooking, adds a unique depth that transports you to the sunny shores of the Caribbean with every mouthful.

This stew is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors. The marriage of tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and rich spices creates a comforting dish that is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Pairing it with fluffy jasmine rice elevates the dish, soaking up the savory sauce and enhancing the overall experience. It's a meal that brings warmth to the table and joy to the heart.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Stew

To achieve the best flavor in your Jamaican Beef Stew, consider marinating the beef overnight with some of the spices and garlic. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more robust and flavorful stew. Additionally, searing the beef cubes until they are browned creates a depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction, which enhances the overall taste profile.

When selecting your vegetables, feel free to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, green beans, or even bell peppers can be great additions. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as some vegetables may require less time to become tender. This flexibility allows you to make the dish uniquely yours while still staying true to its Jamaican roots.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Jamaican Beef Stew, presentation can elevate the dining experience. Serve the stew in a large bowl over a generous helping of fluffy rice, and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for a pop of color. You can also provide a side of fried plantains or a simple green salad to complement the dish's rich flavors.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a sprinkle of Scotch bonnet pepper or a dash of hot sauce to each serving. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add an authentic touch to your Jamaican meal. Enjoying this stew with family or friends is sure to create lasting memories and bring everyone closer together around the dinner table.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

For the Stew

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon allspice
1 tablespoon thyme
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

2 cups jasmine rice
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Jamaican Beef Stew.

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, allspice, thyme, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.

Cook the Rice

In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add rice and salt, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes or until rice is tender.

Serve

Serve the beef stew over a bed of fluffy rice and enjoy!

Enjoy your meal with family and friends!

Nutritional Benefits

Jamaican Beef Stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The beef provides a hearty source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, the vegetables such as carrots and potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced meal. The inclusion of spices like thyme and allspice not only enhances flavor but also offers antioxidant properties, making this dish a wholesome choice for any occasion.

Moreover, the use of fresh ingredients helps to retain their nutritional content, making this stew a healthy option for those looking to indulge without compromising on health. The fiber from the vegetables and rice aids in digestion, making it a satisfying meal that keeps you full for longer.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing your Jamaican Beef Stew is simple. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just ensure to label and date your containers to keep track of freshness.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to preserve the stew's texture and flavors. If frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This dish often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld together, making it an excellent option for meal prep or making ahead of time.

Jamaican Beef Stew Variations

While this recipe offers a classic take on Jamaican Beef Stew, there are numerous variations to explore. For a lighter version, consider using leaner cuts of beef or even substituting beef with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. This allows you to experience the flavors of Jamaica in a way that suits your dietary preferences.

You can also experiment with spices or add ingredients like coconut milk for a creamier texture or habanero for an extra kick. Each variation brings a new twist to the dish, ensuring that you can enjoy Jamaican flavors in a multitude of ways, making it a versatile recipe to keep in your culinary repertoire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round steak if desired.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this stew?

Yes, you can substitute the beef with mushrooms or jackfruit for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chopped Scotch bonnet peppers for a spicy kick!

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

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