Entree: Barbados – Southern Culinary Region – Bajan Beef Stew (Hearty Barbadian slow-simmered beef stew flavored with Bajan green seasoning and root vegetables)

Serving Size: 6

Approximate Time

Prep 20 min

Cook 2 hrs 15 min

Total 2 hrs 35 min

Ingredients

- 2 lb (907 g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped, approx. 8 oz (225 g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 scallions (green onions), chopped
- 1 small Scotch bonnet or habanero, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) Bajan green seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) fresh thyme leaves or 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) browning sauce (Kitchen Bouquet or similar)
- 1 tbsp (15 g) tomato paste
- 2 cups (480 ml) beef stock
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced, approx. 12 oz (350 g)
- 2 carrots, sliced, approx. 6 oz (170 g)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped, approx. 6 oz (170 g)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp (5 g) salt
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) white vinegar or lime juice
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) brown sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) water or additional stock as needed

Instructions

1. Pat the beef dry and season with 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) of the salt and a pinch of pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, about 2–3 minutes per side, transferring browned pieces to a plate to avoid crowding.
2. Reduce heat to medium, add the chopped onion, garlic, scallions, and Scotch bonnet (if using) to the pot and sauté until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, green seasoning, thyme, and browning sauce and cook 1–2 minutes to release aromas.
3. Return the beef to the pot, add the beef stock, bay leaf, remaining salt and pepper, vinegar, and brown sugar (if using). Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until the beef is nearly tender.
4. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped bell pepper. Add water or extra stock if the stew looks too thick. Continue to simmer, uncovered or partially covered, for another 30–45 minutes until the vegetables and beef are tender and the sauce has slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning to taste and remove the bay leaf before serving.