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 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 allspice; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups long-grain rice; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the rich flavors of the Caribbean with this hearty Jamaican Beef Stew served with fluffy rice. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2025-12-21T07:40:53.260Z

This Jamaican Beef Stew is a beloved comfort food that captures the essence of Caribbean cooking. With its tender beef, vibrant spices, and a hint of sweetness from the vegetables, it's a dish that warms the soul.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that transport you to Jamaica
Tender and juicy beef simmered to perfection
A complete meal with flavorful rice

      

A Taste of Jamaica

Jamaican cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices that reflect the island's rich heritage. The combination of allspice, thyme, and paprika in this beef stew brings a unique depth of flavor, making each bite a delightful experience. This dish is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of Caribbean culture that invites you to savor the warmth and hospitality of Jamaica.

The use of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes not only enhances the stew's flavor but also adds nutritional value. These ingredients contribute to the stew's heartiness, making it a satisfying option for any family gathering. Whether enjoyed on a special occasion or as a comforting weeknight dinner, this stew is sure to impress.

Perfect Pairing: Rice

Fluffy rice is the ideal companion for this Jamaican Beef Stew, serving as a base that absorbs all the delicious juices. The simplicity of the rice recipe allows the rich flavors of the stew to shine through without competing for attention. Cooking the rice to perfection enhances the overall dining experience, making it a complete meal that is both comforting and fulfilling.

Using long-grain rice ensures a light and airy texture, providing a pleasant contrast to the hearty stew. The method of rinsing the rice before cooking is essential for removing excess starch, leading to perfectly fluffy grains. This attention to detail in both the stew and the rice elevates this dish to a true culinary delight.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Jamaican Beef Stew, consider garnishing it with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness. Additionally, a side of fried plantains or a simple green salad can complement the dish beautifully, enhancing the overall presentation and flavor profile. These additions not only elevate the meal but also introduce more traditional Jamaican elements to your dining experience.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider offering some hot pepper sauce on the side. This allows guests to customize their level of spice and truly make the dish their own. The versatility in serving options ensures that this stew can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their taste preferences.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 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 allspice
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

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

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepared before starting the cooking process.

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 onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Add the carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, allspice, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Simmer

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

Cook the Rice

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

Serve

Serve the beef stew hot over a bed of fluffy rice. Enjoy your meal!

Make sure to let the stew cool down before storing any leftovers in the fridge.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers from this Jamaican Beef Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors throughout the week. The stew's flavors will continue to develop as it sits, often tasting even better the next day.

When reheating, it's best to do so slowly over low heat on the stove to prevent the beef from becoming tough. You can also add a splash of beef broth or water if the stew has thickened too much. For a quick option, using the microwave is fine, but be sure to stir it halfway through to ensure even heating.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this stew based on your preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter version, you can substitute the beef chuck with chicken or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. The cooking times may vary, so adjust as necessary to ensure your protein is cooked through.

Additionally, you can experiment with different vegetables. Adding peas, corn, or even sweet potatoes can bring new flavors and textures to the dish. Each variation can create a unique twist on this classic recipe while still maintaining its hearty essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the beef with chicken or goat for a different flavor.

→ How can I make this stew spicier?

Add Scotch bonnet peppers or cayenne pepper to taste during cooking.

→ Can I prepare this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

→ What should I serve with Jamaican Beef Stew?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, but you can also serve it with dumplings or bread.