Jamaican Beef Stew with Dumplings

Name: Jamaican Beef Stew with Dumplings
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; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp fresh thyme; 1 tsp allspice; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup water; 2 tbsp butter, melted

Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavor Journey

I love making Jamaican Beef Stew with Dumplings for its hearty, comforting flavors that remind me of home. The rich blend of spices and tender beef truly warms my heart, while the fluffy dumplings soak up the flavorful broth beautifully. Each time I prepare this dish, it turns into a delightful gathering moment with loved ones, as we share the enjoyment of good food and cherished memories. The unique taste of this stew transports me straight to the vibrant streets of Jamaica, making it a dish I’m always excited to whip up.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:26:27.560Z

As I stirred the pot of Jamaican Beef Stew, the rich aroma of spices filled my kitchen, reminding me of my grandmother's home-cooked meals. A secret tip I learned is to marinate the beef overnight to maximize tenderness and flavor; it changes everything! Each bite of the succulent beef, paired with the soft dumplings, brings a taste of warmth and nostalgia.

Cooking the dumplings just right is crucial; I aim for them to be fluffy and able to absorb that delicious broth. I often add a touch of scallion for extra flavor near the end of cooking, enhancing the dish without overwhelming it. This simple tweak elevates the entire meal, making it absolutely unforgettable.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty flavors that evoke family traditions
Tender beef that practically melts in your mouth
Fluffy dumplings that soak up the rich broth

      

Essential Ingredients in Jamaican Beef Stew

The choice of beef in this stew is crucial. Beef chuck is ideal due to its rich marbling, which breaks down during the long cooking process, resulting in succulent, tender pieces. If you prefer a leaner cut, sirloin can be a substitute, but it may not yield the same depth of flavor. The use of fresh herbs such as thyme enhances the aromatic profile of the dish; dried thyme can be used in a pinch, but fresh will always provide a vibrant flavor.

Vegetables bring not only flavor but also texture and nutrition to the stew. Carrots and potatoes lend their natural sweetness and creaminess, complementing the savory notes of the beef. Feel free to add parsnips or turnips for a different twist. The colorful bell pepper not only adds visual appeal but also contributes a subtle sweetness; red or yellow peppers are particularly good choices if you're aiming for a sweeter finish.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

Browning the beef properly is a critical step. This process caramelizes the meat's exterior, infusing a rich flavor into the stew. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the beef; you should hear a sizzle. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and cause steaming rather than browning. If you notice any stuck bits on the bottom of the pot, those are flavor gold; just scrape them up as you add the broth.

When adding the dumplings, make sure the stew is gently bubbling. This ensures that the dumplings cook evenly and become fluffy. The lid is essential at this stage; it traps steam, making the dumplings rise beautifully. After about 15 minutes, you can check one dumpling by cutting it in half to ensure it's not doughy inside; they should be light and airy. If they feel dense, it may require a bit more time to cook through.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jamaican Beef Stew with Dumplings

For the Stew

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh thyme
1 tsp allspice
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Dumplings

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup water
2 tbsp butter, melted

Preparation Steps

Instructions

How to Make Jamaican Beef Stew with Dumplings

Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, combine beef cubes with garlic, thyme, allspice, salt, and pepper. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least an hour, preferably overnight.

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add marinated beef in batches, browning each side for about 4-5 minutes.

Add Vegetables and Broth

Once the beef is browned, add onions, carrots, bell pepper, and potatoes. Pour in beef broth and soy sauce. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 60-90 minutes until the beef is tender.

Prepare the Dumplings

In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in water and melted butter until a soft dough forms. Shape dough into small balls.

Cook the Dumplings

After the stew has thickened, gently add the dumplings to the pot. Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce to the stew. Adjust seasoning to your taste before serving for the best result.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This beef stew is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals. In fact, the flavors deepen and improve when allowed to sit for a day in the fridge. I recommend refrigerating the stew separately from the dumplings, as they can soak up too much liquid and lose their fluffy texture overnight. You can easily store the beef stew in an airtight container for up to three days, while cooked dumplings are best enjoyed fresh.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. Simply cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the consistency, as the sauce may thicken upon freezing. Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

When serving this Jamaican Beef Stew, I love to accompany it with a side of steamed rice or festival (a sweet fried dumpling). The rice absorbs the flavorful broth nicely, creating a lovely balance of textures. If you're looking for a fresher touch, a simple cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also cut through the richness of the stew.

For an authentic Jamaican experience, consider garnishing the stew with freshly chopped scallions or parsley before serving. A slice of lime on the side can add a zesty kick that enhances the overall flavor profile. You can even serve it family-style, with everyone helping themselves, which not only fosters a warm gathering but also emphasizes the communal spirit that great food brings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round, but chuck is ideal for stews due to its tenderness.

→ Are the dumplings gluten-free?

No, traditional dumplings use all-purpose flour. You can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, you can freeze the stew without dumplings. Thaw completely before reheating, adding freshly made dumplings if desired.