Belizean Stew Beef
A hearty and flavorful Belizean classic, this stewed beef features tender chunks of beef slow-simmered in a rich, savory gravy infused with aromatic spices and herbs. Often enhanced with the addition of vegetables like potatoes, it's a comforting and satisfying dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs Beef chuck roast(cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 2 tbsp Distilled white vinegar(for cleaning beef)
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 Large onion(roughly chopped)
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1.5 tsp Sea salt(or to taste)
- 1 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 1 tbsp Recado or annatto powder(or paprika for color)
- 4 cups Water(plus more as needed)
- 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped)
- 2 Potatoes(medium, peeled and diced (optional))
- 1 Habanero pepper(finely chopped (optional, for heat))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the beef chunks thoroughly with distilled white vinegar. Drain and pat dry.
💡 Tip: This step helps to clean the meat and remove any gamey odors. - 2
Season the beef generously with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and recado (or paprika).
💡 Tip: Ensure each piece of beef is well-coated with the seasonings. - 3
Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until golden brown on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- 4
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. If using habanero, add it now and sauté for another minute.
- 5
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add 4 cups of water, chopped cilantro, and bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. - 6
Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Add more water, about 1 cup at a time, if the stew becomes too dry.
💡 Tip: The cooking time will vary depending on the cut of beef. - 7
If using potatoes, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The sauce should be rich and slightly thickened.
💡 Tip: Let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a deeper flavor, marinate the beef overnight with the seasonings.
- ✓If you don't have recado, paprika can be used for color, though it won't impart the same complex flavor.
- ✓Serve hot with white rice, rice and beans, or mashed plantains.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or okra.
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of habanero pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.