Description
A rich and flavorful Caribbean Beef Curry with tender beef stew meat, aromatic spices, and hearty potatoes simmered to perfection. This dish combines traditional Jamaican curry powder with a touch of heat from Scotch bonnet pepper, creating an authentic island-style main course that’s perfect for a comforting meal. Served best with white rice, rice and peas, or roti, it offers a delightful balance of spicy, savory, and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons Caribbean or Jamaican curry powder
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning or beef seasoning
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
- 1 Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper (optional, finely chopped)
- 2 large potatoes (peeled and diced)
Herbs and Liquids
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Oils and Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Chopped green onions or fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: Place the beef in a bowl and season with the Caribbean or Jamaican curry powder and all-purpose seasoning. Mix well to coat all pieces evenly. Let the beef marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for deeper flavor, refrigerate overnight.
- Brown the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the marinated beef and brown on all sides, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and softened, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the beef for added flavor.
- Add Pepper and Return Beef: Stir in the finely chopped Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper if using. Return the browned beef to the pot, mixing everything together evenly.
- Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Add diced potatoes, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and beef broth or water to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Curry: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer gently for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed to keep it from drying out.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a fresh finishing touch. Serve hot with white rice, rice and peas, or roti for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a milder curry, omit or reduce the hot Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper.
- This dish pairs excellently with white rice, rice and peas, or roti for an authentic Caribbean meal.
- You can add additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra color, flavor, and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean
