Jamaican Stew Pork

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure to the sunny shores of Jamaica? Well, get your taste buds ready because we're about to dive into the mouthwatering world of Jamaican Stew Pork! This traditional Caribbean dish is bursting with flavors that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Kingston. So, grab your apron and let's get cooking!

What Makes Jamaican Stew Pork So Special?

First things first, let's talk about what sets Jamaican Stew Pork apart from your average pork dish. It's all about the marinade, baby! The pork is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, including allspice, thyme, garlic, and scotch bonnet peppers. This combination creates a tantalizing aroma that will make your neighbors jealous!

How to Achieve Pork Perfection

Now that you're salivating, it's time to learn how to whip up this Caribbean delight in your own kitchen. Start by browning the marinated pork in a hot pan, allowing those spices to work their magic. Once the pork is nice and golden, it's time to add some onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes to the mix. Let them simmer together, creating a symphony of flavors.

Serving Suggestions and Sides

Now that your Jamaican Stew Pork is bubbling away, it's time to think about how to serve it up. Traditionally, it's served with rice and peas, which are cooked in coconut milk for an extra dose of Caribbean goodness. The combination of tender pork, flavorful rice, and creamy coconut is a match made in culinary heaven.

But why stop there? Get creative with your sides! How about some fried plantains to add a touch of sweetness? Or maybe some festival, which are like little cornmeal fritters that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!). And don't forget a refreshing glass of sorrel, a traditional Jamaican drink made from hibiscus flowers, to wash it all down.

Time to Dig In!

Finally, the moment you've been waiting for has arrived. Your Jamaican Stew Pork is cooked to perfection, your sides are ready, and your taste buds are tingling with anticipation. Grab a plate, pile it high with that succulent pork, and savor every bite. Close your eyes, and for a moment, you'll feel the warm Caribbean breeze on your face.

So, whether you're looking to spice up your dinner routine or you're craving a taste of the tropics, Jamaican Stew Pork is the answer. It's a dish that will transport you to the colorful streets of Jamaica, even if you're just sitting in your own kitchen. So, put on some reggae music, grab a fork, and let the flavors of the Caribbean take you on a culinary journey you won't soon forget!

Prep: 20 mins

Cook Time 1 hour 20 mins

Total Time: 1 hour 40 mins

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds pork stew or pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes, cleaned and washed 
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 stalks Green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
• 1/2  tablespoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• salt (optional)
• 3 tsp All Purpose Seasoning
• 1/4 cup oil (oil of your choice)
• 1 large thyme sprig
• 1 piece of fresh ginger, about 1 inch, smashed or sliced
• 6 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon pimento seeds, cracked (Allspice Berries)
• Ketchup (optional)
• 1 tbsp Brown Sugar (optional)
• Browning (optional)
• 1 Scotch Bonnet Pepper (left whole and uncut)

Directions:

In a bowl place the pork, half of the onion, half of the green onions, paprika, black pepper, dark soy sauce, ginger ,garlic, thyme, all purpose seasoning, 1/2 tsp pimento and a dash of salt. Combine and allow to marinate for 4hours-overnight in the refrigerator.

Place a deep enough skillet or pot , over a medium-high heat, on the stove with enough oil to coat the pot. If using Brown sugar, then add about 1 tbsp to the oil once its fully heated and stir. Allow it to become nice and bubbly (caramelized) and then add in the seasoned pork. Do not let the sugar burn too much or get too dark or this will result in a bitter flavor which will transfer to your meat. If your sugar gets too dark discard it. If not using the sugar then simply add about 1 tbsp meat Browning to the pork and then place it directly into the hot oil, skipping the sugar step. Browning is burnt sugar used to add color to the meat and is widely used by many Caribbean people. You should be able to find this at any Caribbean store and in the international aisle of some supermarkets.

Stir the pork momentarily and allow it to brown for a bit. Cover the pot and allow the pork to cook for about 20 mins. It will release its own juices. 

 Add enough boiling or hot water to the pot and add enough to the pot to cover the meat.

Now lower your heat to low and cover the pot. Allow to cook for about 30 mins.

Now add the remainder of onions, green onions, pimento and the scotch bonnet pepper to the pot and raise the heat to medium. Cover the pot and allow to cook until the pork becomes tender. Add in a small amount of hot water at this point if needed also. 

You can add vegetables like onions and potatoes to the pot at this point also.

Once the pork is tender add in a little ketchup if you decide to use it, taste the pot and adjust any seasonings if needed. Allow to cook for about 10-15 mins and then remove from the heat.

Serve and enjoy with you favorite sides!

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