Jamaican Beef Stew With Rice

Name: Jamaican Beef Stew With Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, diced; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 2 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups white rice; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the vibrant flavors of Jamaica with this hearty Beef Stew served over fluffy rice, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:57:39.288Z

This Jamaican Beef Stew is a comforting dish bursting with flavor, combining tender beef with a medley of spices, vegetables, and a rich gravy. Served over rice, it is a complete meal that brings the taste of the Caribbean to your table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavors that transport you to the Caribbean
Tender beef cooked to perfection in a flavorful stew
A comforting and hearty meal that's perfect for family gatherings

      

A Taste of Jamaica

Jamaican cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and bold spices, and this beef stew is no exception. The combination of allspice and thyme infuses the dish with aromatic qualities that are unmistakably Caribbean. Each bite transports you to the sun-kissed shores of Jamaica, making it perfect for those seeking a taste of the tropics from the comfort of their home.

The use of fresh vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and potatoes not only adds nutrition but also enhances the stew’s color and texture. The hearty vegetables meld beautifully with the tender beef, making each spoonful a delightful experience. This dish is not just food; it's a celebration of Jamaican culture and warmth.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this Jamaican Beef Stew fits the bill. Its rich, savory flavors and comforting texture make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, allowing you to focus on enjoying the company of your loved ones.

Pair this stew with fluffy white rice, which serves as the perfect canvas to soak up the delicious sauce. The combination creates a filling meal that satisfies both the palate and the appetite. You'll find yourself making this dish time and again, as it brings people together around the table.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, use high-quality beef stew meat. Look for cuts that have a good amount of marbling, as this will render the meat tender and flavorful during cooking. Additionally, don’t rush the browning process; giving the beef enough time to sear will enhance the overall depth of flavor in the stew.

When simmering the stew, make sure to maintain a low and steady heat. This allows the beef to become tender without overcooking. If you have time, consider letting the stew sit for a bit after cooking; it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Ingredients

For the Beef Stew

2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

2 cups white rice
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Brown the Beef

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

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Simmer the Stew

Add the browned beef back into the pot along with the carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, thyme, allspice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45 minutes, 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 water and salt to a boil, then add the rice. Cover and reduce the heat to low, cooking for about 18 minutes until the rice is fluffy.

Serve

Once the stew is ready, serve it over a bed of rice and enjoy your delicious Jamaican Beef Stew!

Enjoy your meal with a side of your favorite vegetables or a fresh salad!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Jamaican Beef Stew with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. You can also offer traditional Jamaican sides like fried plantains or festival, which add a delightful sweetness that complements the savory stew.

For a fun twist, consider topping your stew with freshly chopped herbs or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving. This adds a refreshing brightness that elevates the dish and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Jamaican Beef Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it a delicious option for meal prep or quick lunches.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if necessary to restore the desired consistency. This will ensure that your stew remains as flavorful and comforting as it was on the first day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken or pork, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ Is this stew spicy?

The stew is not inherently spicy, but you can add chili peppers if you prefer some heat.

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors develop even more when made a day ahead. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs well with rice, but you can also serve it with cornbread or dumplings.