Jamaican Stew Peas and Spinners

 

Jamaican Stew Peas and Spinners

 

Jamaican Stew Peas is one among Jamaica’s most comforting and iconic dishes. Despite the name, “peas” in Jamaica frequently refers to crimson kidney beans. This hearty stew is rich, creamy, and packed with taste. Traditionally, it consists of salted meat, gentle beans, coconut milk, and a medley of herbs and spices. Paired with spinners, that are easy boiled dumplings, this dish is a fave for lunch or dinner, supplying warm temperature and pride in each bite.

Ingredients

For the Stew Peas:

1 cup dried crimson kidney beans (or 2 cups canned)

1 lb salted red meat, salted pig tail, or fowl

2 cups coconut milk

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 scallions, chopped

1-2 sprigs thyme

1-2 entire pimento berries (allspice)

1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for warmth)

1 huge tomato, chopped

four cups water or broth

Salt and black pepper to flavor

For the Spinners (Dumplings):

1 ½ cups all-motive flour

½ teaspoon salt

About ½ cup water (regulate for dough consistency)

Step-by way of-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Beans

If the usage of dried beans, rinse them and soak overnight. Drain and area in a pot with fresh water. Boil till gentle however now not mushy—this typically takes forty five–60 mins. If the usage of canned beans, rinse and drain them before including to the stew later.

2. Prepare the Meat

 Salted meats like pig tail or pork must be soaked for numerous hours or in a single day to eliminate extra salt. Drain and rinse thoroughly. In a big pot, warmness a touch oil and sauté the onions, garlic, and scallions till aromatic. Add the beef and brown lightly for brought taste.

3. Make the Stew

Once the beef is browned, add the coconut milk, chopped tomato, thyme, and pimento berries.  Bring to a gentle boil, then lessen warmness to simmer. Add the cooked beans if the usage of dried beans; for canned beans, upload them later to avoid overcooking. Let the stew prepare dinner for 45–60 minutes or until the beef is smooth and flavors meld together. Add the Scotch bonnet pepper if you want a piece of heat—depart complete to avoid overpowering the stew, or chop finely if you decide upon spicier.

Four. Prepare the Spinners

While the stew simmers, make the dumplings. In a bowl, blend flour and salt. Gradually upload water and knead until a soft however organization dough forms. Pinch off small pieces and roll them into brief, twisted shapes equivalent to spinners. These dumplings will cook dinner directly in the stew.

5. Cook the Spinners

Drop the spinners into the simmering stew over the last 15–20 mins of cooking. The dumplings will puff slightly and take in the flavors of the stew at the same time as cooking. Avoid stirring too vigorously, as this can spoil them aside.

6. Finish and Serve

Once the spinners are cooked thru and the stew is thickened on your liking, cast off from heat. Serve warm, ensuring each element has both beans, meat, and dumplings. Garnish with greater scallions or thyme if favored.

Tips and Variations

Meat Options: Chicken, salted red meat, or pig tail are commonplace. For a lighter version, you can skip meat absolutely and add extra beans and veggies.

Beans: Kidney beans are traditional, but purple beans or black-eyed peas may be substituted.

Spinners: Some humans add a pinch of baking powder to the dough for fluffier dumplings.

Flavor Boost: A dash of coconut cream or butter close to the cease complements the richness.

Spicy Twist: For authentic warmness, leave the Scotch bonnet complete to infuse taste, or finely chop for extra spice.

About the Dish

Stew Peas with Spinners is greater than only a meal—it’s a reflection of Jamaican culinary tradition. The dish combines protein, starch, and veggies in a unmarried pot, making it nutritious and filling. The coconut milk adds a silky texture and diffused sweetness that balances the saltiness of the beef. The spinners serve as the proper accompaniment, soaking up the creamy stew and giving a comforting, chewy bite.

 In Jamaica, this dish is commonly enjoyed as a weekend meal or unique occasion food, often served with rice in a few families. It’s mainly famous for family gatherings because of its capacity to feed a crowd and its rich, layered flavors. The aggregate of beans, coconut, and herbs showcases the island’s combo of African, European, and indigenous influences in its cooking.

Conclusion

Jamaican Stew Peas with Spinners is a classic, soulful dish that embodies the essence of Jamaican home cooking. It’s hearty, flavorful, and tremendously easy to prepare. The mixture of creamy coconut, soft beans, savory meat, and chewy dumplings makes each chunk deeply satisfying. Perfect for a circle of relatives meal or whilst you crave something comforting and true, this dish is a have to-attempt for all and sundry exploring Caribbean cuisine.