Winter Worthy Jamaican Stew Peas
Winter is the best time for enjoying a hearty pot of stew, but make it Caribbean next time with this Jamaican stew peas that will warm the belly and soul.
Stew peas is a combination of smoked meat with Red Kidney beans slow cooked in coconut milk. It becomes a creamy, hearty bean dish accompanied by spinners which are thinner oblong dumplings.
I learned to make this dish after i fell in love with it from our trip to Jamaica. It’s one of his favorite winter meals so it was only fitting I learn to whip this up on occasion.
I love this dish in the winter months especially because its very warming. The flavor of the creamy coconut milk and kidney beans paired with rice is very reminiscent of new Orleans style red beans and rice.
Making Stew Peas
Stew peas is actually a simple stew using many of the foundation Caribbean ingredients:
- Red Kidney beans
- Spring onion
- Bell Pepper
- Scotch bonnet
- Coconut milk
- Fresh Herbs
- Pimento Berries
- Onion
- Garlic
- Smoked meat
The smoked meat is cooked until tender then the beans and fragrant veg are added along with the spices and coconut milk. Most people add spinners or dumplings to the dish for added heartiness and also it thickens the stew even more (in my opinion).
What meat to use
Any smoked meat works perfectly in this dish because it brings an added flavor component that makes the peas taste amazing!
I personally only use smoked turkey when making stew peas with meat, however there are many who use ham hocks or smoked pork joints as well.
Using the Right Coconut Milk
Is actually one of the main flavor ingredients to stew peas. It adds a creamy, milky semi sweetness and thickens the stew to perfection.
I like to use fresh coconut milk if its handy, however Canned will work just as good, preferably the thicker the better.
Make it Vegan
I could not leave out my vegan family. Its just as tasty without the smoked turkey. Leave it plain or add in 2 cups of soaked veggie chunks and you have a great Vegan alternative. Ital is Vital.
Storing the Left Overs
Stew peas can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 or 6 days if kept in an airtight container. They also freeze really well and can keep for a month or 2 also in an air tight container.
Recommendations
Here are a few other recipes to check out:
- An Incredibly Easy Caribbean Snack: Salt Fish Fritters
- Here’s How to Make Jamaican Pumpkin soup
- How to Make Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Callaloo
Drop a comment blow and let me know what you think. If you decide to make any of my recipes leave me a comment or tag me on Instagram @myeagereats or hashtag #myeatereats .
I’d Love to hear from you!
Jamaican Stew Peas is a hearty creamy stew made from kidney beans, smoked meat and spinners in creamy fresh coconut milk.
First, In a large pot heat 1 tbsp oil then add the smoked turkey. Brown on both sides then add the chopped onions, garlic, spring onion, Pimento berries, parsley and thyme. Saute for 7 to 10 minutes then pour enough water to cover the turkey.
Next, Add a whole scotch bonnet, cover the pot and bring to a boil. Cook for 1 hour or until the smoked turkey starts to pull from the bone.
Second, when the turkey has become fork tender, add the kidney beans, green onion and all purpose seasoning. Cook for 40 minutes then pour in the coconut milk and butter. Cook on medium low until peas have become soft.
Finally, Drop in the spinners. When spinners have floated to the top, season to taste and remove pot from heat and serve.
In a medium sized bowl, combine All purpose flour and salt then slowly pour in water. Mix and knead until it forms a ball. Cover with plastic wrap or towel for 10 minutes to rest.
After the dough has rested, pull apart about 3 tbsp of dough and roll back and fourth between the palms of your hands to create oblong pieces. Drop them into the pot of stew peas to cook.
Ingredients
Directions
First, In a large pot heat 1 tbsp oil then add the smoked turkey. Brown on both sides then add the chopped onions, garlic, spring onion, Pimento berries, parsley and thyme. Saute for 7 to 10 minutes then pour enough water to cover the turkey.
Next, Add a whole scotch bonnet, cover the pot and bring to a boil. Cook for 1 hour or until the smoked turkey starts to pull from the bone.
Second, when the turkey has become fork tender, add the kidney beans, green onion and all purpose seasoning. Cook for 40 minutes then pour in the coconut milk and butter. Cook on medium low until peas have become soft.
Finally, Drop in the spinners. When spinners have floated to the top, season to taste and remove pot from heat and serve.
In a medium sized bowl, combine All purpose flour and salt then slowly pour in water. Mix and knead until it forms a ball. Cover with plastic wrap or towel for 10 minutes to rest.
After the dough has rested, pull apart about 3 tbsp of dough and roll back and fourth between the palms of your hands to create oblong pieces. Drop them into the pot of stew peas to cook.
I love Jamaican food so I know I will be trying your dishes
Thanks for sharing! I hope you enjoy them! xo