Authentic Jamaican Bahama Mama Stew

Name: Authentic Jamaican Bahama Mama Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 tablespoon allspice; 1 teaspoon thyme; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Exotic Global Recipes

I absolutely love cooking dishes that transport me to another place, and this Authentic Jamaican Bahama Mama Stew does just that! The combination of vibrant spices and tender meat creates a flavor explosion that celebrates Caribbean cuisine. Over the years, I've experimented with different ingredients and techniques, fine-tuning this recipe to achieve the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. With each bite, you'll taste the warmth of the Caribbean sun and feel as if you're sitting on a sandy beach with a cool drink in hand. Trust me, you’re in for a true culinary adventure!

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:29:27.386Z

My journey with Jamaican cuisine started years ago, and this Bahama Mama Stew remains a favorite in my home. I remember the first time I tried it at a vibrant Caribbean festival—the rich flavors left a lasting impression. The trick lies in allowing the spices to bloom while sautéing the meat, which enhances the depth of flavor.

As I crafted this recipe, I discovered that adding coconut milk towards the end brings a creamy texture that complements the spice beautifully. Don't skip this step, as it transforms the dish and makes each bite memorable! Pairing it with some rice or flatbreads brings it all together beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, slow-cooked flavors that pack a punch
Balanced heat with a touch of sweetness
Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a key ingredient in this Bahama Mama Stew, contributing a rich, creamy texture that balances the spices beautifully. When you add it, mix well so that it fully incorporates with the other ingredients, creating a luscious base for your stew. I recommend using full-fat coconut milk for the best flavor, as it enhances the savory aspects of the dish while adding a hint of natural sweetness.

When simmering, the coconut milk helps to infuse the beef and vegetables with warmth and depth. It's crucial to keep an eye on the heat; if the sauce starts to bubble aggressively, it could lead to separation. Adjust the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld without compromising the integrity of the coconut milk.

Balancing the Spice Profile

The spices in this stew bring out the true essence of Caribbean cuisine. For example, curry powder and allspice provide a warm foundation, while thyme offers an earthy note that ties everything together. I suggest starting with the listed amounts and adjusting based on your palate—add more curry if you prefer a stronger flavor or a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick of heat.

If you find the stew too spicy after cooking, you can add a touch more coconut milk or even a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance it out. This sweetener will counteract the heat without overpowering the dish, allowing the rich flavors to shine through.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this stew is delightful served over fluffy rice, consider pairing it with flatbreads to soak up the sauce. For added freshness, a side of mango or avocado salad can complement the rich flavors perfectly. If you're feeling adventurous, serve it in a coconut shell for a fun presentation reminiscent of tropical beaches.

This recipe is also quite flexible; feel free to substitute the beef for chicken or even a plant-based meat alternative to accommodate dietary preferences. Just adjust the cooking time as those proteins require less time to become tender. No matter how you serve it, this stew is sure to impress!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Caribbean masterpiece!

Main Ingredients

2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 carrots, sliced
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 tablespoon allspice
1 teaspoon thyme
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to prep everything before starting to cook for an easier experience.

Instructions

Ready to bring the taste of Jamaica to your kitchen? Follow these simple steps!

Sear the Meat

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Add in the carrots, coconut milk, beef broth, curry powder, allspice, thyme, and soy sauce. Stir well.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover and let simmer for 45 minutes, or until the beef is tender.

Seasoning

Taste the stew and season with salt and pepper as needed. If desired, you can adjust the spices to your preference.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle into bowls, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot over rice or with flatbreads.

Enjoy the delicious flavors of your homemade stew!

Pro Tips

To enhance the depth of flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight with spices before cooking. This allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, making for a more robust taste. If you prefer a bit more heat, feel free to add chopped Scotch bonnet peppers to the mix.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Once cooled to room temperature, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To free up space in your fridge, you can also portion out servings into smaller containers for easy lunch options throughout the week.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may want to add a splash of beef broth or water if it thickens too much during storage. Microwaving is also an option; just cover the bowl to retain moisture and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your stew turns out too thick, it can easily be remedied by adding more beef broth or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency. Remember, it's about the balance of flavors and textures, so adjust gradually. On the other hand, if it’s too soupy, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, which will help evaporate excess liquid and thicken the sauce.

Another common issue can be unbalanced flavors, like too much heat or sweetness. If you've added too much spice, a squeeze of lime or lemon can help cut through it, providing a refreshing contrast that will enhance the overall dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for beef; just adjust the cooking time to around 30-35 minutes until it's cooked through.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What can I serve with Bahama Mama Stew?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, roti, or even over mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.