Imagine biting into a crispy, golden-brown fish, drenched in a rich, savory stew infused with aromatic spices, sweet bell peppers, and fresh thyme. That’s the magic of Jamaican Brown Stew Fish! This traditional Caribbean dish is bold, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re a seafood lover or exploring new flavors, this recipe is a must-try. Get ready to bring the taste of Jamaica to your table!
Ingredients and Preparation Steps
Here’s everything you need to make this delicious Jamaican Brown Stew Fish at home.
Ingredients
- 2 whole fish (snapper or any firm fish), cleaned & scored
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp all-purpose or jerk seasoning
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 garlic cloves, divided
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme, divided
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 1 Roma tomato, chopped
- ½ cup carrots, julienned
- 2 scallions, sliced
- 1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper, pierced (optional for spice)
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp allspice (pimento seeds)
- ½ cup water
Step 1: Season the Fish
Start by seasoning the fish with salt, black pepper, and all-purpose or jerk seasoning. Let it sit while you prepare the rest of your ingredients. For extra flavor, marinate the fish for 30 minutes!
Step 2: Fry the Fish
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 garlic cloves and 2 sprigs of thyme to infuse the oil. Carefully place the fish into the hot oil and fry for about 5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Remove excess oil from the pan, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Add bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, carrots, scallions, the remaining thyme, and the Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Stew Base
Finely chop the remaining garlic and add it to the pan, cooking for about 30 seconds. Stir in the ketchup, soy sauce, allspice, and water. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Simmer the Fish
Carefully return the fried fish to the pan, spooning the flavorful sauce over the top. Cover and let it simmer for 2-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve hot with rice and fried plantains!
The Best Time to Savor Your Jamaican Brown Stew Fish
There’s nothing better than enjoying a plate of steaming Brown Stew Fish with a side of fluffy rice and fried plantains. This dish is perfect for:
- A weekend family feast – Gather your loved ones for a Caribbean-inspired meal.
- A seafood lover’s delight – If you enjoy bold flavors and fresh fish, this is for you!
- A special dinner treat – Impress guests with an authentic Jamaican meal.
Want more delicious Caribbean flavors? Try our Creamy Chicken and Mushroom recipe for another comforting dish!
Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Stew Fish
Can I use fillets instead of whole fish?
Yes, you can use fillets, but whole fish provides a richer, more authentic flavor. If using fillets, be careful not to overcook them.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level depends on whether you use Scotch bonnet pepper. For a mild version, skip it or use a milder chili.
What can I serve with Brown Stew Fish?
This dish pairs perfectly with white rice, coconut rice, fried plantains, or steamed vegetables.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
For more seafood inspiration, check out this authentic Jamaican Brown Stew Fish recipe from Food52.
Pro Tips for Perfect Brown Stew Fish
Want to take your Jamaican Brown Stew Fish to the next level? Follow these expert tips for the best results:
- Choose the Right Fish: Use a firm fish like snapper, kingfish, or parrotfish to prevent breaking apart during cooking.
- Marinate for More Flavor: Let the fish sit with seasoning for at least 30 minutes to absorb the spices.
- Don’t Skip Frying: Frying the fish first adds a crispy texture and locks in flavor before simmering in the stew.
- Control the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, remove the Scotch bonnet pepper before it bursts in the stew.
- Let the Stew Thicken: Simmer the sauce for a few minutes before adding the fish to achieve a rich consistency.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and scallions enhance the dish’s authentic Caribbean aroma and taste.
- Balance the Flavors: Adjust salt, soy sauce, and ketchup to get the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Have leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Brown Stew Fish while keeping it delicious:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Brown Stew Fish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion.
- Reheating on the Stovetop: Warm the stew over low heat in a pan, adding a splash of water if needed.
- Microwave Option: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Avoid Overcooking: Reheat only until warm to prevent the fish from becoming dry or mushy.
Perfect Pairings for Brown Stew Fish
Make your meal complete by serving Jamaican Brown Stew Fish with these delicious sides:
- Steamed White Rice: A classic choice that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- Jamaican Rice and Peas: Coconut-infused rice with red beans for a true Caribbean experience.
- Fried Plantains: Sweet and caramelized, they balance the savory stew perfectly.
- Boiled Dumplings: Traditional Jamaican dumplings add heartiness to the dish.
- Steamed Vegetables: A simple side of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers for a fresh contrast.
For another delicious Caribbean-inspired meal, check out our Rice Paper Rolls Recipe!
Want to make it even more special? Try serving it with a chilled glass of fresh mango juice or a side of creamy coleslaw for the perfect contrast of flavors and textures.
We’d love to hear from you! Have you tried this recipe? What’s your favorite way to enjoy Brown Stew Fish? Let us know in the comments below! Your feedback helps other food lovers recreate this delicious dish.
Looking for more amazing recipes? Explore our collection of Caribbean-inspired dishes and don’t miss our flavorful Creamy Chicken and Mushroom for another comforting meal!
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Happy cooking!
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Brown Stew Fish
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2
Description
This bold and flavorful dish brings the heart of Jamaica to your kitchen! Crispy fried fish is simmered in a rich, savory brown stew packed with bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Serve it with rice and plantains for the ultimate Caribbean feast!
Ingredients
– 2 whole fish (snapper or any firm fish), cleaned & scored
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp all-purpose or jerk seasoning
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 4 garlic cloves, divided
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme, divided
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
– 1 yellow onion, sliced
– 1 Roma tomato, chopped
– ½ cup carrots, julienned
– 2 scallions, sliced
– 1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper, pierced (optional for spice)
– 1 tbsp ketchup
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp allspice (pimento seeds)
– ½ cup water
Instructions
1. First, season the fish with salt, pepper, and jerk seasoning. Set aside.
2. Next, heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 garlic cloves and 2 sprigs of thyme to infuse the oil. Fry the fish for about 5 minutes per side until crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. After that, remove excess oil, leaving 2 tbsp in the pan. Add bell peppers, onion, tomato, carrots, scallions, the remaining thyme, and Scotch bonnet. Sauté for 2 minutes.
4. Then, finely chop the remaining garlic and add it to the pan, cooking for 30 seconds.
5. Next, stir in ketchup, soy sauce, allspice, and water. Bring to a simmer.
6. Finally, return the fish to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top. Cover and simmer for 2-5 minutes. Serve hot with rice and plantains!
Notes
For extra depth of flavor, marinate the fish for 30 minutes before cooking!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Quick & Easy
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