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; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups white rice; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

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

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2025-12-23T00:30:42.280Z

This Jamaican Beef Stew is a beloved dish that combines tender beef, rich spices, and hearty vegetables. It's perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with authentic Jamaican flavors
Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
A comforting meal that's perfect for sharing

      

A Taste of Jamaica

Jamaican cuisine is known for its bold flavors and vibrant ingredients, and this beef stew is no exception. Infused with spices like allspice and thyme, it showcases the essence of Jamaican cooking. Each bite transports you to the Caribbean, making it an ideal dish for anyone craving a taste of island life.

The use of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes not only adds nutrition but also a colorful presentation to the stew. These ingredients meld together beautifully, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the beef is a crucial step in this recipe that enhances the stew's overall flavor. This process creates a rich, caramelized crust on the meat, which adds depth to the dish. Don't skip this step; it’s where the magic begins!

Simmering the stew allows the flavors to develop fully. The longer it cooks, the more the spices penetrate the meat and vegetables, resulting in a tender, flavorful dish. Patience is key here—allowing the stew to simmer for at least an hour and a half will yield the best results.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican beef stew pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice, which acts as a canvas for the rich stew. The rice soaks up the flavorful broth, making each bite even more delicious. For a more traditional approach, consider serving it with rice and peas, a staple in Jamaican households.

To elevate your meal, garnish with freshly chopped herbs or a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors. Adding a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad can also complement the stew, enhancing both the flavor profile and nutritional balance of the meal.

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
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

2 cups white rice
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Brown the Beef

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

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until the onions are translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back to the pot along with carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir 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 simmers, rinse the rice under cold water. In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and salt, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes.

Serve

Once the beef is tender and the rice is cooked, serve the stew over rice and enjoy!

Storage 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 over time, making the leftovers just as delicious, if not better, than the first serving. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months.

When reheating, simply transfer the stew to a pot and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if the stew seems too thick. This will help maintain the desired consistency and flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this Jamaican beef stew to suit your taste. You can add other vegetables like green beans or sweet potatoes for additional flavor and texture. If you're looking for a spicier kick, consider adding Scotch bonnet peppers or a dash of hot sauce.

For a lighter version, substitute the beef with chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the protein is cooked through while still being tender and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

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

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

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

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

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

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs well with fried plantains, dumplings, or a simple green salad.