Saint Lucian Manni Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew featuring 'manni' (young breadfruit) slow-cooked with salted meat, aromatic vegetables, and local spices. This dish is a comforting staple, showcasing the versatility of breadfruit.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Young breadfruit (manni)(peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 500 g Salted pork or beef(soaked overnight and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 sprigs Thyme
- 1 small Scotch bonnet pepper(whole, or to taste)
- 1 medium Cho-cho (chayote)(peeled, seeded, and diced)
- 1 medium Carrot(diced)
- 6 cups Water or chicken broth
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste, adjust for salted meat)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the soaked salted meat thoroughly and drain. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the salted meat until browned on all sides.
- 2
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the young breadfruit chunks, thyme sprigs, and the whole Scotch bonnet pepper to the pot. Stir to combine with the meat and aromatics.
- 4
Pour in the water or chicken broth, ensuring the ingredients are mostly submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the breadfruit is tender.
- 5
Add the diced cho-cho and carrot to the stew. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the stew has thickened slightly.
- 6
Remove the thyme sprigs and the Scotch bonnet pepper (if you prefer less heat). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed, keeping in mind the saltiness of the meat.
- 7
Serve hot, ensuring each bowl has a good portion of breadfruit, meat, and vegetables. This stew is often enjoyed on its own or with a side of rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking the salted meat overnight is crucial to remove excess salt. Change the water a few times.
- ✓If young breadfruit is unavailable, slightly more mature breadfruit can be used, but it may require a longer cooking time.
- ✓For a richer flavor, a small piece of smoked ham hock can be added along with the salted meat.
- ✓Be cautious when handling Scotch bonnet peppers; wear gloves and avoid touching your eyes.
🔄 Variations
- Add other ground provisions like dasheen or yam for a heartier stew.
- For a spicier kick, finely mince a portion of the Scotch bonnet pepper and add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- A splash of coconut milk can be added in the final 15 minutes for a creamier texture.