A warm, hearty bowl of stew can make any meal feel special, and this West Indian Beef Stew is no exception. Infused with a blend of aromatic spices and slow-cooked to perfection, this stew brings the rich and diverse flavors of the Caribbean to your table. The West Indian culinary tradition is renowned for its use of bold spices and fresh ingredients, creating dishes that are both comforting and vibrant. This beef stew, with its tender chunks of meat, flavorful vegetables, and fragrant herbs, is a perfect representation of that tradition.
West Indian Beef Stew is a dish that not only fills your stomach but also warms your soul. It’s a great choice for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or any occasion where you want to serve something delicious and satisfying. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a stew that is rich, complex, and deeply flavorful. Served over a bed of rice or with a side of warm bread, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this delectable dish.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons West Indian curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Cooked rice or bread, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef:
- Season the beef chunks with salt and black pepper.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef in batches, browning on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and bell pepper to the pot.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Spice it Up:
- Sprinkle the curry powder, ground allspice, and thyme over the vegetables.
- Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the browned beef to the pot.
- Pour in the beef broth and coconut milk, stirring to combine.
- Add the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors are well melded.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
- Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
- Serve over a bed of cooked rice or with a side of warm bread.
Tips for Success:
- For a richer flavor, marinate the beef in a mixture of the spices and some lime juice for at least an hour before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the stew.
This West Indian Beef Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the rich culinary traditions of the Caribbean. The combination of tender beef, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk creates a stew that is both comforting and exotic. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients, take your time with the slow-cooking process, and enjoy a delicious taste of the Caribbean in every bite. Bon appétit!
