Name: Jamaican Brown Stew Fish Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Snapper fillets (or any firm white fish); 1 medium Onion (chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tsp Ground allspice; 1 tsp Ground ginger; 1 tsp Thyme; 1 cup Scotch bonnet pepper (finely chopped (optional)); 1 cup Tomato paste; 1 cup Chicken broth; 2 tbsp Olive oil; 1 tbsp Soy sauce

Okay, let me tell you about this Jamaican Brown Stew Fish Recipe. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, seriously! If you’re a fan of hearty comfort food with a kick, similar to a good chicken stew but with flaky, melt-in-your-mouth fish, then you absolutely HAVE to try this. My grandma used to make this for us every Sunday, and the aroma alone was enough to make your mouth water. The depth of flavor, the slight sweetness, the perfect balance of spices… it’s all just incredible. I’ve tweaked her recipe over the years, but it still brings back those wonderful childhood memories. This recipe for Jamaican Brown Stew Fish is one you’ll want to make again and again!

What is Jamaican brown stew?

So, what exactly is Jamaican Brown Stew Fish? Well, think of it as a soul-satisfying stew where the star of the show is tender fish simmered in a rich, deeply flavored gravy. The “brown stew” part comes from browning the fish (and sometimes the vegetables) to create a beautiful caramelized base that adds tons of flavor. It’s essentially a one-pot wonder, packed with veggies, herbs, and spices that all meld together to create something truly special. It’s a staple in Jamaican cuisine, and every family has their own unique version, but the core concept remains the same: delicious, comforting, and utterly addictive.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Okay, where do I even begin? There are SO many reasons why you’ll fall in love with this Jamaican Brown Stew Fish Recipe. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world! The combination of the browned fish, the savory vegetables, and the warm spices creates a symphony of tastes that will dance on your tongue. It’s also surprisingly easy to make! Seriously, don’t let the “stew” part intimidate you. It’s mostly hands-off cooking, which is perfect for busy weeknights.

What I love most about this is how cost-effective it is. You can use affordable cuts of fish, and the vegetables are all relatively inexpensive. It stretches really far, making it a great option for feeding a crowd. And let’s talk versatility! You can serve it with rice and peas (classic!), mashed potatoes, or even just crusty bread to soak up all that delicious gravy. I even love having it with some fried dumplings sometimes! It’s just so adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand. Plus, this is a healthier option than some other stew recipes. Using fish makes this a lighter but equally delicious meal. Trust me; you’ll be hooked after the first bite!

How do I make Jamaican brown stew fish?

Quick Overview

Making this Jamaican Brown Stew Fish Recipe is easier than you think! First, you’ll lightly season and sear your fish to get a beautiful golden-brown crust. Then, you’ll sauté your vegetables in the same pot to build up a flavorful base. Next, you’ll add your seasonings, broth, and fish back into the pot and let it simmer until the fish is cooked through and the gravy has thickened. It’s a simple process with a HUGE flavor payoff, and honestly, the hardest part is waiting for it to be ready!

Ingredients

For the Fish:
* 1.5 lbs firm white fish fillets (cod, snapper, or mahi-mahi work great), cut into 2-inch pieces. I always prefer snapper if I can find it!
* 1 tbsp all-purpose seasoning. You can use a store bought blend or make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and a pinch of cayenne pepper
* 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
* 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Stew:
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 1 scotch bonnet pepper, whole (optional, but adds a lovely kick! Be careful not to break it open if you don’t want it too spicy)
* 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 4 cups chicken or fish broth
* 2 tbsp browning sauce (this is what gives it that deep, rich color)
* 1 tbsp soy sauce
* 1 tsp dried thyme
* 1/2 tsp allspice
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

What are the steps to

Step 1: Season the Fish

In a bowl, combine the fish pieces with all-purpose seasoning and black pepper. Make sure the fish is evenly coated. This step is crucial for building flavor right from the start!

Step 2: Sear the Fish

In a Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the fish in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). What should I do if I want to sear my fish for about 3 minutes per side? Don’t worry about cooking it all the way through at this point. Is it possible to get a nice crust on fish? If so, remove the fish from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This is where the base of your stew’s flavor comes from, so don’t rush this step!

Step 4: Add the Aromatics and Liquids

Add the scotch bonnet pepper (if using), diced tomatoes, chicken or fish broth, browning sauce, soya sauce and salt. Stir well. Add allspice, thyme, and sauce to the pot. Set aside. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Simmer the Stew

Gently add the seared fish back to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the fish, or it will become dry and rubbery.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste the stew and adjust seasoning as needed. Is it necessary to add more salt, pepper, or browning sauce to your recipe? Remove the scotch bonnet pepper before serving (if used). Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve hot.

What should I serve it with?

What’s your favorite Jamaican Brown Stew Recipe? What is the classic pairing of rice and peas? What are some of the best ways to prepare a creamy stew? What are the possibilities?What is a hearty meal?Serve over mashed potatoes. What are some of the best potatoes to eat with gravy? If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it with some polenta or grits.For a lighter option:Serve it with some steamed vegetables or a simple salad. What is the best way to balance out the richness of stew?For a Casual Gathering:Serve with crusty bread or fried dumplings for dipping. Is this perfect for sharing with friends and family? My family loves having a side of sweet plantains with it, the sweetness pairs so nicely with the sweet potato. What is a savory stew? No matter what you choose, you’re in for a treat!

How do I make Jamaican Brown Stew?

What is a Jamaican Brown Stew recipe? What are some of the best tips I have learned over the years?What is the best fishDon’t be afraid to experiment with different types of fish! While cod, snapper, and mahi-mahu are great options, you can also try using grouper, tilapia, or both. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Also, try to buy fish fillets of equal thickness for even cooking.Browning is the key to a Don’t skip the browning step! This is where so much of the flavor comes from. Make sure your pot is hot enough and don’t overcrowd it, or the fish will steam instead of sear.
Scotch Bonnet Caution:If you’re using a scotch bonnet pepper, be very careful! It’s extremely spicy. I recommend leaving it whole and removing it before serving. If you want milder flavor, you can prick it a few times with your fork. Should I wash my hands after handling it?Vegetable VariationsWhat are some other vegetables to add to a stew? What are some good ways to add flavor to a meal?Browning Sauce: WhatBrowning sauce is essential for that rich, dark color and flavor. Can you find it in most Caribbean or international grocery stores? If you can’t find molasses, substitute it for soy sauce.Spice it up (or down): What are some good ways toWhat is the best combination of all-purpose seasoning and scotch bonnet pepper? If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can omit the scotch bonnet pepper altogether.Simmer Time:What is the best way to slow down the simmering process? The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will be. I often let it simmer for up to an hour, stirring occasionally.What are some of the best ways toAlways taste the stew before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a little more salt, pepper, browning sauce, or lime juice to your recipe. How do you brighten up the flavors?

What are some tips for Storing and Reheating

What are leftovers? What is the best Jamaican Brown Stew Fish recipe? How did time meld together?Refrigerator Storage: Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before refrigerating. I usually portion it out into individual containers for easy lunches or dinners.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the stew. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the stew in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave. If the stew is too thick, you can add a little broth or water to thin it out.
Glaze Timing Advice: Adding fresh garnish after you reheat the Jamaican Brown Stew Fish Recipe is the perfect way to make it taste like it was just made. Some fresh cilantro or parsley will add the final touch!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, you can use frozen fish, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

I can’t find browning sauce. What can I use instead?

If you can’t find browning sauce, you can use a mixture of molasses and soy sauce as a substitute. Use equal parts molasses and soy sauce, and add it to the stew in the same amount as the browning sauce.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this in a slow cooker. Sear the fish and sauté the vegetables as directed in the recipe. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the fish during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I add coconut milk?

Yes, adding coconut milk will add a creamy richness to the stew! Add about 1 cup of coconut milk during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add other vegetables to the stew, such as okra, pumpkin, or cho cho. These will add even more flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! My version of this incredible Jamaican Brown Stew Fish Recipe. It’s truly a taste of home for me, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen too. The rich flavors, the tender fish, and the comforting warmth of this stew are simply irresistible. If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other Caribbean-inspired dishes, like jerk chicken or curried goat! And please, let me know in the comments how yours turns out! I’m always excited to hear about your variations and adaptations. Happy cooking!

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