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 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 green onions, chopped for garnish; 2 cups long-grain rice; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the vibrant flavors of Jamaican cuisine with this hearty beef stew served over fluffy rice. Perfect for a family dinner or a comforting meal any day of the week.

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:11:01.039Z

This Jamaican Beef Stew is a beloved dish that brings together tender beef, aromatic spices, and a variety of vegetables in a rich, savory sauce. Served over fluffy rice, it's a warming meal that evokes the spirit of the Caribbean. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that transport you to the Caribbean
Tender beef that falls apart with just a fork
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any occasion

      

A Taste of Jamaica

Jamaican cuisine is renowned for its bold and vibrant flavors, and this beef stew is a prime example. With a perfect balance of spices, including allspice and thyme, each bite transports you to the Caribbean. The combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables creates a delightful harmony, making this dish a favorite among many. Whether you're familiar with Jamaican food or trying it for the first time, this stew will certainly captivate your taste buds.

The use of fresh ingredients is key to achieving the authentic taste of Jamaican beef stew. The bright colors of bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to the rich flavor profile. Cooking the stew slowly allows these ingredients to meld together beautifully, resulting in a comforting meal that is both nourishing and satisfying for the whole family.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Stew

To ensure your beef is perfectly tender, it's essential to choose the right cut of meat. Beef chuck is ideal for stews because it becomes incredibly soft when simmered over low heat. Browning the meat before adding the other ingredients not only enhances the flavor but also adds depth to the stew, creating a rich base for the dish.

Don't rush the simmering process! Allowing the stew to cook slowly for at least 1.5 hours enables the flavors to develop fully. If time permits, consider letting it simmer even longer for an even richer taste. Additionally, feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand, as this stew is versatile and forgiving.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican beef stew is best served over a fluffy bed of rice, which helps soak up the flavorful broth. For a traditional touch, consider using coconut rice or adding a side of fried plantains for a delightful contrast. The sweetness of the plantains complements the savory stew perfectly, making for a well-rounded meal that is sure to impress.

To elevate your dining experience, garnish the stew with chopped green onions just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh crunch that enhances the overall flavor. Pair it with a refreshing beverage like ginger beer or a fruity rum punch, and you'll have a complete Caribbean feast right in your home.

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 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped for garnish

For the Rice

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

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Brown the Beef

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

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back to the pot along with carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, allspice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Stew

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

Cook the Rice

While the stew is simmering, rinse the rice under cold water. In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add rice and salt, reduce heat, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes until rice is fluffy.

Serve

Once the stew is ready, serve it hot over a bed of rice, garnished with chopped green onions.

Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Beef Stew with Rice!

Nutritional Benefits

This hearty beef stew is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. The beef provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. Meanwhile, the vegetables, including carrots and potatoes, offer dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish a wholesome choice for any meal.

In addition to the meat and veggies, the spices used in this stew, such as thyme and allspice, come with their own health benefits. Thyme is known for its antioxidant properties, while allspice has anti-inflammatory benefits. Together, they not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to a healthier diet.

Storing and Reheating

This Jamaican beef stew can easily be made in advance, making it a great option for meal prep. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Reheating the stew may enhance the flavors even further, as the ingredients continue to meld together over time. Just be sure to add a splash of beef broth or water while reheating to maintain the stew's desired consistency. Enjoying leftovers can be just as delightful as the first serving!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round steak, but chuck is recommended for its tenderness.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free beef broth.

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.