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 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups long-grain rice; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon butter

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the rich and vibrant flavors of Jamaica with this hearty beef stew served over fluffy rice. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:39:46.865Z

This Jamaican Beef Stew is a classic dish that brings the warmth of the Caribbean to your table. With tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a blend of spices, this stew is a comforting meal that pairs perfectly with rice.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and aromatic spices that awaken your taste buds
Tender beef that melts in your mouth
A complete meal with protein and carbs in one dish

      

A Taste of Jamaica

Jamaican cuisine is known for its bold flavors and vibrant colors, and this beef stew exemplifies that tradition beautifully. The combination of spices like allspice and thyme creates a warm and aromatic base, while the addition of fresh vegetables adds texture and nutritional value. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to the sun-soaked Caribbean.

The use of beef chuck ensures that the meat becomes tender and juicy as it simmers, absorbing all the wonderful flavors from the stew. Each bite is a celebration of the rich culinary heritage of Jamaica, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or family dinners. Whether you’re familiar with Jamaican food or trying it for the first time, this stew is sure to impress.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best flavor in your Jamaican beef stew, it’s essential to sear the beef properly. This step locks in the juices and creates a beautiful crust that enhances the dish's overall taste. Don't rush this part; allow the beef to brown nicely before removing it from the pot.

Consider adjusting the spice levels to suit your palate. If you enjoy a little heat, you can add a chopped Scotch bonnet pepper or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. This will give your stew that signature Jamaican kick and elevate the flavors even further.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican beef stew pairs wonderfully with fluffy long-grain rice, which acts as a perfect canvas for the rich sauce. You can also serve it with traditional sides like fried plantains or a fresh garden salad to balance the meal. The sweetness of the plantains complements the savory stew, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

For a truly authentic experience, consider garnishing your dish with freshly chopped scallions or cilantro. These herbs not only add a pop of color but also enhance the overall freshness of the dish. Your family and friends will appreciate the attention to detail and the delicious taste of this Jamaican classic.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

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

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

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

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Simmer the Stew

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

Cook the Rice

In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the rice, salt, and butter. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes until rice is fluffy.

Serve

Serve the beef stew over a bed of rice, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutritional Benefits

This Jamaican beef stew offers a well-rounded meal, packed with essential nutrients. The beef provides a rich source of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth. Coupled with the variety of vegetables, including carrots and bell peppers, you’re also getting a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals in each serving.

The use of beef broth not only adds depth to the flavor but also contributes to hydration. This dish is not only satisfying but also supports your overall health, making it a smart choice for family dinners or meal prep.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing this 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 longer preservation. When reheating, ensure it’s heated thoroughly to maintain its delightful flavor and texture.

To reheat, simply place it in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if necessary to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until warmed through. This stew often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld and develop.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round steak, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It's traditionally served with rice, but you can also enjoy it with dumplings or crusty bread.