Caribbean Classics Archives - Page 5 of 5

Let’s get one thing straight: this Applewood Smoked Pineapple Chow isn’t your traditional Trinbagonian chow, but it sure delivers a punch of flavor you won’t forget. Chow, in the Caribbean, walks the line between salad and pickle. Typically made with green mangoes or other tart fruits, it’s fresh, spicy, and citrusy, perfect for roadside snacking or sharing at a lime. For this version, I took things in a new direction by using ripe pineapple, grilling it to release its natural sweetness, and adding a touch of applewood smoke for depth.

I owe a big thanks to my good friend Chef Marc, who introduced me to the idea of grilled pineapple chow and really elevated the concept with his own personal twist. The combination of caramelized pineapple, smoky notes, fresh herbs, and roasted Scotch Bonnet delivers something truly unforgettable.

I like to serve this chilled after the flavors have had a chance to marry, but you can enjoy it right away too. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or simply enjoying it with some eggs at breakfast the next day (yes, it’s that good), this chow is a whole new take on a Trini classic.

Ingredient Guide

Ripe Pineapple: Sweet and juicy base for the chow that holds up beautifully on the grill.
Red Onion: Adds sharpness and crunch to balance the sweetness.
Garlic: Brings warmth and depth.
Sea Salt: Enhances flavor and balances acidity.
Scotch Bonnet Pepper: Delivers heat and fruity spice, especially when grilled.
Shado Beni: Earthy and bright—double up on cilantro if needed.
Lime or Lemon: Provides the necessary acidity to brighten and preserve.
Fresh Black Pepper: Adds aromatic heat and contrast.
Applewood Chips: Imparts a subtle, smoky flavor that transforms the dish.

Shopping Made Easy

Use a fresh, ripe pineapple that still feels firm—it grills better without getting mushy.
Applewood chips are available in the barbecue section of most hardware or kitchen stores.
If you’re in Trinidad and can’t find applewood chips, try grilling without smoke or substitute with dried citrus peels for aroma.
Scotch Bonnet peppers are common in Caribbean groceries—roast them for extra depth.
Shado beni is sometimes labeled as culantro; cilantro makes a good backup.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

You don’t need to soak the wood chips—dry chips ignite quicker and deliver immediate smoke.
Grill the pineapple just enough to caramelize and warm it, not cook it through.
Roasting the Scotch Bonnet gives it a complex flavor that’s milder than raw.
Chill the finished chow for at least an hour to let the flavors marry—it’s worth the wait.

What is chow?

Chow is a popular Caribbean snack or side dish made by seasoning fresh, often tart fruit with lime or lemon juice, salt, garlic, hot peppers, and herbs. Originating in Trinidad and Tobago, it’s a cross between a salad and a pickle, known for its bold, refreshing flavor.

Can I make this without a grill?

Yes. Broil the pineapple slices in the oven for a few minutes per side to caramelize. You won’t get the same smoky depth, but the chow will still be delicious.

What can I use instead of applewood chips?

In Trinidad, applewood may be hard to find. You can try using dry citrus peels or just skip the smoke entirely for a lighter version.

Is this chow very spicy?

That depends on how much Scotch Bonnet you use. Roasting it tames the heat a bit, and you can always adjust to taste.

Applewood Smoked Pineapple Chow

A Caribbean twist on classic Trini chow with grilled pineapple, applewood smoke, and roasted Scotch Bonnet pepper.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Total Time 15

Course Appetizers & Snacks, Caribbean Classics, Side Dishes, Summer Recipes, Sunday Dinners, Vegan, Vegetarian

Cuisine Fusion

Servings

Ingredients

1 pineapple ripe
1/2 red onion
2 cloves garlic
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 Scotch Bonnet pepper
2 tablespoon shado beni or cilantro
1/2 lime or lemon
1 pinch Black pepper
1 handful apple wood chips

Instructions

Create a pouch with a piece of sturdy tin foil with a handful of apple wood chips, wrap and poke some holes with a fork. Place it on the side of the grill area (or directly on the hot coals or flame) and cover the lid.
Peel and slice the Pineapple (1) into 1/2 inch slices.
With your grill on medium heat, place the pineapple slices over a medium heat and cover the grill immediately (you don’t want to loose that lovely smoke you created). Put Scotch Bonnet Pepper (1/4) on the grill as well.
Grill for 2 minutes, then flip and grill for another 2 minutes.
Slice the Red Onion (1/2) very thin, dice the Garlic (2 clove) very finely. Chop the Fresh Cilantro (2 tablespoon).
Remove the roasted Scotch Bonnet off the grill, deseed and chop finely. Then slice the grilled pineapple into bite sized pieces (like little pizza slices).
Assemble everything and place everything into a large bowl and mix well. Drizzle with juice from the Lime (1/2). Season with Sea Salt (1/4 teaspoon) and Ground Black Pepper (1 pinch), then stir.
Serve immediately, or let chill in the fridge for an hour, which would allow the flavors to develop and settle together.

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taro and stewed saltfish and garnish on plate

Caribbean Classics Fall Recipes Featured Jamaican Seafood & Fish Soups & Stews Weeknight Dinners Winter Recipes

Stewed Saltfish with Taro (Dasheen)

January 7, 2026April 16, 2025Leave a Comment

Stewed Saltfish with Taro (Dasheen) is a hearty Caribbean comfort dish that combines creamy taro (also known as dasheen) with flavorful stewed salted cod and vibrant vegetables. This recipe celebrates “ground provisions”—root vegetables cherished across the islands—and transforms them into a soul-warming, balanced meal. It’s simple, wholesome, and reminds us of home, making it perfect for relaxed weekend cooking or sharing with loved ones.

Ingredient Guide

Taro (Dasheen): Nutty, starchy root vegetable that softens to a creamy texture when boiled or steamed.
Saltfish (Salted Cod): Preserved cod with intense flavor, rehydrated to create a savory base.
Onion, Bell Pepper, Celery, Garlic, Scotch Bonnet: Form a colorful aromatic sauté foundation.
Tomato: Adds acidity and sweetness to balance the saltiness.
Fresh Thyme and Scallions: Contribute bright herbal notes.
Vegetable Oil: Used to sauté vegetables and enhance flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper: Seasoning to complete the dish.

Shopping Made Easy

Look for taro (dasheen) in the produce section—choose firm, smooth roots.
Purchase saltfish from Caribbean or specialty fish sections and rinse before cooking.
Scotch bonnet peppers vary in heat—use more or less depending on preference.
Fresh thyme adds authentic flavor, but dried can be used in a pinch.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Boil or steam taro until fork-tender before combining with saltfish.
Rinse soaked saltfish thoroughly to remove excess salt; break it into flakes.
Sauté aromatics on medium heat to avoid burning and preserve vibrant flavors.
Gently fold cooked taro into the stewed mixture to avoid mashing it completely.

How long do I soak or boil saltfish?

Soak saltfish in room-temperature water for 15–30 minutes, then rinse. If still salty, boil for 10–15 minutes and drain.

Can I use other ground provisions instead of taro?

Yes, cassava, eddoes, green banana, yams, or sweet potatoes all make excellent substitutes.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your saltfish and seasonings are pure.

What can I serve with taro and stewed saltfish?

It’s delicious on its own or with sides like rice, fried plantains, dumplings, or callaloo.

Stewed Saltfish with Taro (Dasheen)

Creamy taro paired with savory stewed saltfish, aromatics, and herbs for a comforting Caribbean-style one-pot meal.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Caribbean Classics, Fall Recipes, Seafood & Fish, Soups & Stews, Weeknight Dinners, Winter Recipes

Cuisine Jamaican

Servings

Ingredients

2 pounds taro dasheen
1/2 pound saltfish, cod; soaked and flaked
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion diced
1/2 cup bell pepper diced
2 celery stalks diced
3 cloves garlic minced
1 tomato diced
3 sprigs fresh thyme leaves only
2 scallions chopped
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Optional

1 Scotch Bonnet pepper seeded and finely chopped

Instructions

Using a sharp knife or potato peeler, remove the other skin of the Taro (2 pound) and discard. Remove any blemishes and cut off any previously cut areas to expose the fresh interior.
Boil or steam taro chunks in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes; drain and set aside.
While taro cooks, heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add tomato, Scotch bonnet pepper, and thyme.
Cook 3 minutes more until fragrant.
Stir in flaked saltfish and cook for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
Gently fold in cooked taro chunks, stirring carefully to coat with the stewed mixture.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, stir in scallions, and serve hot.

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Callaloo with shrimp in a saucepan on the stove

Caribbean Classics Featured Jamaican Seafood & Fish Side Dishes Spring Recipes Summer Recipes Weeknight Dinners

Jamaican Callaloo With Shrimp

January 7, 2026April 16, 2025Leave a Comment

Jamaican Callaloo with Shrimp is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together tender callaloo greens and plump shrimp in a savory, aromatic sauté. This beloved Caribbean classic combines garlic, scallions, thyme, and a touch of heat for a simple yet soul-warming meal. It’s versatile enough to serve as a satisfying side or a main course over rice or dumplings. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or island-style gatherings, this dish is effortlessly delicious and deeply rooted in Caribbean kitchens.

Jamaican callaloo with shrimp cooked in a pan with lemons

Ingredient Guide

Callaloo (or young spinach or amaranth): Tender leafy green that becomes silky when cooked.
Shrimp: Quick-cooking seafood that brings subtle sweetness and protein.
Garlic and Onion (or scallion whites): Base aromatics that build flavor and fragrance.
Scallions and Thyme: Fresh herbs that brighten the dish.
Whole Scotch Bonnet Pepper: Infuses mild heat and fruity pepper flavor (remove before serving).
Tomato (optional): Adds tang and a pop of color.
Vegetable Oil: For sautéing ingredients and preventing sticking.
Salt and Black Pepper: Seasonings to enhance the overall dish.

Shopping Made Easy

Use fresh callaloo or substitute baby spinach or amaranth if not available.
Opt for medium or large shrimp (peeled, deveined) for best texture and flavor.
Adjust heat level by including or omitting the Scotch bonnet.
Ensure fresh scallions and thyme—aromatics make a big flavor difference.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Wash greens thoroughly to remove grit between stalks.
Add the Scotch bonnet whole to infuse gentle heat without overpowering spice.
Cook shrimp last to prevent overcooking—just until they curl and become opaque.
For a richer flavor, finish with a small pat of butter or a dash of coconut milk.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, just don’t add the shrimp and sauté the greens longer until tender.

What can I serve with callaloo and shrimp?

It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fried dumplings, boiled green bananas, or breadfruit.

What is callaloo?

Callaloo is a leafy green vegetable popular in Caribbean cuisine, similar to spinach or amaranth. It’s known for its slightly earthy flavor and tender texture when cooked.

When is callaloo in season?

Callaloo grows year-round in tropical climates, but it’s most abundant during the rainy seasons, typically spring and summer in the Caribbean.

How do I store and prepare callaloo?

Store fresh callaloo in a paper towel-lined plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wash thoroughly, remove any tough stems, and chop before cooking.

Jamaican Callaloo With Shrimp

Sautéed callaloo greens and shrimp in garlicky, aromatic herbs make this a comforting, flavorful Caribbean dish.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Course Caribbean Classics, Seafood & Fish, Side Dishes, Spring Recipes, Summer Recipes, Weeknight Dinners

Cuisine Jamaican

Ingredients

1 lb callaloo greens or substitute spinach/amaranth
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
1 onion or scallion whites, sliced
2 scallions chopped
3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
1 Scotch Bonnet peppers remove before serving
salt to taste
black pepper to taste
1 tomato chopped

Instructions

Wash, trim, and chop the callaloo into ribbons. If using the stems, use only tender ones and scrape off some of the outer skin. Set aside.
Thinly slice the garlic, and chop the onion, scallion, tomato, and Scotch bonnet pepper.
Heat oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, black pepper, and scallion. Reduce heat to low and sauté for 3–4 minutes.
Stir in shrimp (if using precooked, rinse and squeeze out excess moisture). Cook for 3 minutes. For fresh shrimp, cook for 3 minutes, remove, and set aside; return them during the final few minutes of cooking.
Increase heat to medium-high and add the callaloo, tomato, thyme, and Scotch bonnet. Stir to combine; the greens will wilt down.
Add water and simmer uncovered for about 10–12 minutes or until callaloo reaches your desired tenderness.
Taste and adjust salt as needed. Optional: Finish with a splash of lemon juice to balance the flavors. Stir to combine and cook off any excess liquid.
Add reserved shrimp if using fresh. Stir in scallions. Serve hot.

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Breads & Bakes Caribbean Classics Desserts Featured Festive & Holiday Recipes Jamaican Seasonal Recipes Trinidadian Winter Recipes

Moist Caribbean Black Cake with Soaked Fruit

January 7, 2026April 16, 2025Leave a Comment

I still remember my dad grinding the fruit for our black cake, under my mom’s watchful eye—sampling the rum and cherry brandy himself! That memory inspired me to share this Caribbean Black Cake in two parts originally: first, how to prepare the soaked fruits. But for convenience, I’ve now combined everything into one place so you can follow the process from start to finish. If you’ve seen Part 1 before, you’ll recognize the same flavor-packed fruit prep here, just now linked directly to the full cake recipe for a smoother experience.

Black cake is a cherished holiday tradition across the Caribbean, but every family makes it differently. I start by soaking and blending the fruit for maximum flavor, then, when the cake is baked, brushing it with rum and sherry makes it truly festive. Seeing my daughters get involved in preparing the fruit has become a new tradition. Whether you make a big batch or a simplified version, this cake brings warmth, memories, and island spirit to your celebrations.

Ingredients Guide

Dark Rum: Essential for soaking the fruit and flavoring the cake.
Sherry: Adds sweetness and richness to the fruit blend.
Prunes: Provide deep flavor and soft texture.
Mixed Peel: Brings citrus and texture to the fruit base.
Raisins: Offer sweetness and soak well in alcohol.
Maraschino Cherries: Add color and a touch of cherry flavor.
Lemon Peel: Adds bright citrus notes.
Unsalted Butter: Forms the rich base of the cake batter.
Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture.
Eggs: Bind the batter and add richness.
Vanilla and Mixed Essence: Enhance the flavor profile.
Lime Zest: Brightens the batter with fresh citrus flavor.
Angostura Bitters: Offers a subtle spiced complexity.
Flour and Baking Powder: Give the cake structure and lift.
Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Allspice: Warm Caribbean spice blend.
Burnt Sugar Browning: Deepens the color and caramel flavor.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

Shopping Made Easy

Caribbean grocery stores usually carry browning, mixed essence, and dried peels.
Use good quality rum and sherry; flavor matters.
Soak your fruits for at least one month, or up to a year.
You can find burnt sugar browning in the international or West Indian aisle of large supermarkets.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Soaking the fruit well in advance is key; don’t rush it.
Browning is powerful; start with a little and taste before adding more.
Store leftover soaked fruit in a glass jar in a cool, dark place.
The cake improves over time; brush it with rum and sherry as it ages.
Use parchment-lined pans and don’t overfill; 2/3 full is best.

Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?

Yes, but pulse carefully to keep a bit of texture in the fruit. Avoid turning it into a puree.

What is cherry brandy, and can I use something else?

Cherry brandy is a sweet, red liqueur that adds depth. Sherry is a great substitute and often easier to find.

Does Caribbean Black Cake contain alcohol?

Yes, Caribbean black cake is traditionally made with fruits soaked in alcohol, typically dark rum and sherry or cherry brandy. The cake is also brushed with more alcohol after baking to enhance flavor and preserve it. While most of the alcohol evaporates during baking, the post-bake brushing means the cake retains some alcohol content. If making it alcohol-free, substitute with fruit juice for soaking and skip the finishing brush.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, a gluten-free flour blend works, though the texture may vary slightly. Ensure the baking powder is also gluten-free.

What’s the purpose of browning?

Browning gives black cake its signature dark color and subtle bittersweet flavor. It’s made from burnt sugar and adds authenticity.

How long does this cake last?

Stored properly in an airtight container and brushed with alcohol, black cake can last several weeks or even months.

Moist Caribbean Black Cake with Soaked Fruit

A festive and deeply flavorful Caribbean Christmas cake made with soaked fruits, warm spices, and a touch of burnt sugar browning.

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Prep Time 25

Cook Time 2

Total Time 2 25

Course Breads & Bakes, Caribbean Classics, Desserts, Festive & Holiday Recipes, Seasonal Recipes, Winter Recipes

Cuisine Jamaican, Trinidadian

Ingredients

Fruit Soak

2 cups dark rum
4 cups sherry or cherry brandy
1 pound prunes pitted
1 pound mixed peel
1/2 pound raisins
1/2 pound maraschino cherries
1/4 pound lemon peel

Cake Batter

1/2 pound unsalted butter softened
1 cup brown sugar
6 large eggs room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon mixed essence
1 tablespoon lime zested
1 dash Angostura bitters optional
4-5 cups soaked dried fruit
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg freshly grated
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon burnt sugar browning
1 pinch salt

Instructions

Roughly chop the prunes.
Blend the dried fruit with a portion of the rum and sherry to a thick, chunky paste.
Blend until it is a thick but smooth consistency (with a little chunkiness).
Pour the entire mixture into a large bowl.
Pour the mixture into a large jar, add the remaining alcohol, seal the jar, and store it for at least 1 month.
Preheat the oven to 250°F (120 °C). Grease and line baking pans with parchment.
Cream butter and sugar until pale. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla, mixed essence, lime zest, and bitters.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla, mixed essence, lime zest, and bitters.
Fold in half of the soaked fruit, then half of the dry mixture (flour, spices, baking powder, salt).
Repeat.
Add browning and mix to combine.
Divide into prepared pans (fill 2/3 full). Bake for 2 1/2 hours or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Brush the cake tops with a mix of rum and sherry.
Cool completely, then brush again before wrapping and storing.

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Classic Jamaican peas and rice in a white dish

Breads & Bakes Caribbean Classics Easy Caribbean Recipes Fall Recipes Featured Jamaican Rice & One-Pot Seasonal Recipes Side Dishes Spring Recipes Summer Recipes Vegan Vegetarian Weeknight Dinners Winter Recipes

Jamaican Rice and Peas

January 7, 2026April 16, 2025Leave a Comment

Jamaican Rice and Peas is a beloved staple in Caribbean cuisine made with tender kidney beans simmered in creamy coconut milk, aromatic scallions, thyme, garlic, and a whole scotch bonnet pepper. This dish infuses long-grain rice with rich flavor and island soul. Perfect as a hearty side for stews or grilled meats, it’s a comforting crowd-pleaser that brings the taste of the islands to your kitchen.

Ingredient Guide

Kidney Beans (peas): Traditionally soaked then simmered to tender perfection, they build the dish’s hearty base.
Coconut Milk: Adds creamy richness and characteristic island flavor.
Long-Grain Rice: Absorbs seasoned liquid for fluffy, flavorful results.
Scallions, Garlic and Onion: Aromatic trifecta for savory depth.
Fresh Thyme: Adds an earthy, herbal note essential to Caribbean versions.
Whole Scotch Bonnet Pepper: Infuses mild fruity heat without overpowering the dish—remove before serving.
Salt & Black Pepper: Basic seasoning to balance flavors.
Pimento or Allspice (optional): Adds depth and warmth for a traditional touch.

Shopping Made Easy

Use dried kidney beans for authentic flavor, but canned works in a pinch.
Choose full-fat coconut milk for the best texture; avoid drinking varieties.
You’ll find Scotch bonnet in Caribbean markets; substitute habanero for similar heat and fruitiness.
Long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati yields the lightest, fluffiest results.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

Soak beans overnight to reduce cook time and improve texture.
Cook beans until tender, then add coconut milk and aromatics before adding rice.
Avoid stirring rice while it cooks—to ensure a non-mushy, even texture.
Let cooked rice rest for about 10 minutes off heat before fluffing to lock in flavor.

What is rice and peas?

Rice and peas is the Jamaican name for this dish—‘peas’ refers to kidney beans, not green peas.

When is it in season?

Canned and fresh beans are available year-round; fresh coconut milk is best over summer, but canned provides consistent quality.

How do I store rice and peas?

Let cool slightly, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to refresh texture.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, this dish tastes even richer after a day. Prepare ahead and reheat when ready to serve.

What pairs well with rice and peas?

Serve alongside oxtail, jerk chicken, stews, roasted fish, or curried vegetables for a full Caribbean feast.

Jamaican Rice and Peas

Creamy coconut-infused rice simmered with tender beans, aromatic herbs, and gentle heat; a Caribbean table essential.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Breads & Bakes, Caribbean Classics, Easy Caribbean Recipes, Fall Recipes, Rice & One-Pot, Seasonal Recipes, Side Dishes, Spring Recipes, Summer Recipes, Vegan, Vegetarian, Weeknight Dinners, Winter Recipes

Cuisine Jamaican

Servings

Ingredients

1/2 cup dry red kidney beans
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1-1/2 cups coconut milk
1 pepper Scotch Bonnet peppers
1 bulb onion
2 cloves garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 sprigs thyme
2 cups long grain brown rice par boiled
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
2 stalks scallions
2 cups water

Instructions

If using dried beans, rinse and soak overnight.
Drain and place in a large pot with water; bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until tender, about 30 minutes.
Add coconut milk, onion, garlic, scallions, thyme, scotch bonnet, salt, pepper, and pimento (if using) to the pot; stir and bring just to a boil.
Add rice, stir once, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and cook 20–25 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and let sit, covered, 10 minutes. Remove the scotch bonnet, thyme stems, and pimento berries.
Fluff rice gently with a fork and serve hot.

Notes

water according to your rice cooker directions for cooking brown rice
treat the one cup of red beans as rice, so adjust your water according to the rice cooker instructions

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Caribbean Classics Jamaican Main Dishes Meat & Poultry Soups & Stews Sunday Dinners

Jamaican Stewed Oxtail With Butter Beans.

February 5, 2026February 13, 202114 Comments

When people search for a proper Jamaican stewed oxtail recipe, they’re usually looking for deep flavor, tender meat, and that rich, dark gravy that only comes from patience and tradition. While I grew up in Trinidad and Tobago, where oxtail wasn’t always front and center, my real introduction to Jamaican-style stewed oxtail came through a friend’s grandmother in Canada. She cooked with confidence, instinct, and no shortcuts, and that lesson stuck with me.

This dish is all about layering flavor. From properly seasoning the oxtail, browning it well, and then letting it simmer low and slow until the meat relaxes and pulls away from the bone, every step matters. The butter beans are added near the end so they soak up the gravy without breaking down, and the scotch bonnet gives you that unmistakable Caribbean aroma, whether you leave it whole or cut it for heat.

This is comfort food with roots. It’s the kind of meal you cook on a weekend, freeze in portions, and look forward to every time you reheat it. If you take your time and respect the process, this Jamaican stewed oxtail recipe will reward you every single time.

Ingredient Guide

Oxtail Rich, collagen-heavy cut that becomes tender and silky when slow-cooked.
Lemon Helps clean the meat and removes excess odor before seasoning.
Black Pepper Adds warmth and background spice to the seasoning blend.
All-Purpose Seasoning Builds a savory base with layered Caribbean flavor.
Salt Enhances all other flavors throughout the dish.
Garlic Provides depth and aromatic backbone to the stew.
Caribbean Browning Gives color and a slight bitterness that balances the gravy.
Dark Soy Sauce Adds umami and deepens the color of the finished dish.
Worcestershire Sauce Boosts savory complexity with subtle tang.
Olive Oil Used to brown the oxtail and develop flavor at the start.
Tomato Paste Adds body, mild acidity, and sweetness to the gravy.
Onion Builds the flavor base as it softens into the sauce.
Thyme Brings an earthy herbal note that defines Caribbean stews.
Scotch Bonnet Pepper Provides authentic Caribbean aroma and adjustable heat.
Ginger Adds warmth and a gentle sharpness to balance the richness.
Scallions Contribute fresh onion flavor without overpowering the stew.
Caribbean Green Seasoning Infuses herbs and aromatics into the meat.
Water Creates the braising liquid for slow cooking.
Brown Sugar Rounds out bitterness and balances savory elements.
Pimento Berries (Allspice) Adds classic Jamaican spice notes.
Butter Beans Absorb flavor while adding creaminess and contrast.
Parsley Freshens the dish at the very end.

Shopping Made Easy

• Ask your butcher to cut the oxtail into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
• Look for Caribbean browning and green seasoning in West Indian grocery stores or international aisles.
• Canned butter beans (aka Lima beans in the USA) are widely available and work perfectly for this recipe.
• Fresh thyme and scotch bonnet peppers are often found in Caribbean or Latin markets. Habanero pepper or a teaspoon of Caribbean Peppersauce will also work if you want to keep with Jamaican tradition and have the finished stewed oxtail with a bit of Caribbean sunshine (heat).

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

• Marinating overnight produces the best depth of flavor, but a minimum of two hours still works.
• Browning the oxtail in batches prevents steaming and improves the final gravy.
• Keep the scotch bonnet whole if you want flavor without intense heat.
• Slow cooking is essential; rushing this dish will result in tough meat.
• Remove thyme stems and pimento berries before serving for a smoother eating experience.

Jamaican Stewed Oxtail With Butter Beans.

Learn how to make an authentic Jamaican stewed oxtail with butter beans, rich gravy, and deep Caribbean flavor. With easy step by step instructions from uncle Chris of CaribbeanPot.com

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Prep Time 25

Cook Time 3

Marinating 2

Course Beef Recipes, Caribbean Classics, Comfort Food, Featured, Main Dishes, Soups & Stews, Sunday Dinners

Cuisine General Caribbean, Jamaican

Servings

Ingredients

4 lbs oxtail trimmed
1 lemon juiced
3/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning
3/4 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon dried garlic or garlic powder
1 tablespoon Caribbean browning
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 medium onion diced
5 to 7 sprigs thyme
4 large garlic cloves smashed
1 scotch bonnet pepper
2 thick slices ginger
2 scallions chopped
1 1/2 tablespoons Caribbean green seasoning
5 cups water
1 tablespoon brown sugar
5 to 9 pimento berries
1 can butter beans rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons parsley finely chopped

Instructions

Wash the oxtail with lemon juice and cool water, trimming excess fat (discard). Rinse and pat dry. Lime juice (2 limes) or white vinegar (1 cup) will also work
Season the oxtail with salt, black pepper, soy sauce, all-purpose seasoning, dried garlic, browning, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well and marinate.
Heat the oil in a heavy pot over medium heat and brown oxtail in batches for 4 to 6 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
Lower heat, leave about one tablespoon oil, add tomato paste (for a bit of acidity and sweetness) , and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
Return oxtail to the pot and add onion, scallions, thyme, garlic, ginger, scotch bonnet, and green seasoning. Stir well.
Increase heat, add water, bring to a boil, then add brown sugar and pimento berries while scraping the pot bottom.
Cover partially and cook on low heat for about 2 hours 45 minutes until tender. Keep an eye on the liquid level and add more water if necessary. Older oxtail will (age of cow) take much longer to get tender, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Add butter beans (rinsed) and cook for 15 minutes. Taste and adjust the salt to your liking.
Remove thyme stems and pimento berries. Finish with parsley and turn off heat. Serve with Jamaican Rice and Peas, Coconut Rice, or Pigeon Peas Rice (aka gungo rice).

Video

Notes

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Jamaican stewed oxtail tough even after cooking for hours?
Oxtail stays tough when it hasn’t been cooked long enough at a low temperature. It needs slow, gentle heat for the connective tissue to break down. High heat or rushing the process will tighten the meat instead of tenderizing it.

How long does Jamaican stewed oxtail need to cook to get tender?
Most Jamaican stewed oxtail takes between 3 and 3 1/2 hours on low heat. Older oxtail can take longer. The meat should be soft and pulling away from the bone when ready.

Do you have to brown oxtail before making Jamaican stewed oxtail?
Yes, browning is essential. It builds deep flavor and color in the gravy and prevents the stew from tasting flat or boiled.

What does browning sauce do in a Jamaican stewed oxtail recipe?
Browning sauce adds color, slight bitterness, and depth to the gravy. It helps create that dark, rich look and taste associated with authentic Jamaican stewed oxtail.

Can I make Jamaican stewed oxtail without browning sauce?
You can, but the stew will be lighter in color and slightly different in flavor. Properly browning the meat and tomato paste helps compensate, but traditional recipes usually include browning.

Should oxtail be fully covered with water when stewing?
No. The liquid should come just up to the meat, not drown it. Oxtail releases liquid as it cooks, which helps form a rich, concentrated gravy.

When do you add butter beans to Jamaican stewed oxtail?
Butter beans are added near the end of cooking, once the oxtail is tender. This prevents the beans from breaking apart while allowing them to absorb the gravy.

Can I substitute kidney beans for butter beans in Jamaican oxtail?
Yes, kidney beans can be used, but butter beans are traditional. They are creamier and absorb flavor better without overpowering the dish.

What is the best cut of oxtail for Jamaican stewed oxtail?
Evenly cut oxtail pieces with some meat and bone are best. Avoid pieces that are all bone or overly fatty, as they won’t cook evenly.

Is Jamaican stewed oxtail supposed to be thick or soupy?
It should have a thick, glossy gravy that coats the meat. Jamaican stewed oxtail is not meant to be soupy.

Why does authentic Jamaican stewed oxtail taste slightly sweet?
The slight sweetness comes from browning sauce, caramelized tomato paste, and a small amount of brown sugar, which balances the savory and spicy elements.

Can Jamaican stewed oxtail be cooked the day before serving?
Yes, and many cooks prefer it that way. The flavors deepen overnight, and the dish reheats very well on low heat.

What do Jamaicans traditionally serve with stewed oxtail?
Jamaican stewed oxtail is commonly served with rice and peas, white rice, mashed potatoes, or boiled ground provisions.

Does Jamaican stewed oxtail taste better the next day?
Yes. As it rests, the flavors meld, and the gravy thickens, making leftovers especially rich and flavorful.

What is the best oil to use when browning oxtail?
A neutral oil with a moderate smoke point works best. Olive oil is commonly used at home, but vegetable or canola oil also works well.

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