Spicy Caribbean Beef Stew is a hearty dish that brings the warmth of the tropics straight to your table. This recipe is loaded with bold spices and creamy coconut milk, making it a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion meal.
Beef chuck is the star of this dish, providing hearty flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly. Olive oil is our base for browning the meat, adding a subtle richness. Onion and garlic give the dish its savory depth, while carrots, potatoes, and sweet potato add natural sweetness and substance. The red bell pepper contributes a touch of color and freshness.
Beef broth forms the base of our stew, and coconut milk adds a creamy, tropical flair. Tomato paste, allspice, and thyme bring all the Caribbean flavors, with a little kick from cayenne pepper. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a burst of color and brightness.
This stew pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy white rice or warm crusty bread to soak up that rich broth. A side of fried plantains makes for an authentic Caribbean experience.
First, let’s get the beef going. Heat up the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add those lovely chunks of beef chuck and brown them on all sides. This part is all about building flavor, so don’t rush it. Once they’re nicely browned, scoop them out and set them aside for later.
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir them around until they’re softened and your kitchen smells amazing. Next up, add in your carrots, potatoes, sweet potato, and red bell pepper. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes, just until the veggies start to soften a bit.
Now, it’s time to spice things up. Stir in the tomato paste, followed by the allspice, thyme, cayenne pepper, and a good pinch each of salt and pepper. Return the beef to the pot, and pour in the beef broth and coconut milk. Give everything a good stir, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
Cover the pot and let the stew simmer away for about 1.5 hours, or until the beef is fall-apart tender. Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to finish things off nicely.