Savor the authentic flavors of Jamaica with this hearty Stew Peas recipe featuring tender pig's tail, creamy coconut milk, and flavorful red kidney beans. This dish is a beloved staple in Jamaican cuisine, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. With a rich blend of spices like thyme, allspice, and scotch bonnet pepper, every spoonful delivers a burst of Caribbean warmth. Learn how to prepare this traditional stew, complete with homemade spinners (dumplings), and discover...
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Rinse the salted pig’s tail thoroughly.
After soaking or boiling, add it to a large pot with fresh water and boil for 1 hour or until tender.
If using dry red kidney beans, soak them overnight and then drain.
Add the beans to the pot with the pig’s tail after it's tender.
Add enough water to cover. Boil until the beans are soft (about 1–1½ hours). If using canned beans, add them after the pig’s tail is tender and simmer for 15 minutes.
Add coconut milk, thyme, scallion, onion, garlic, pimento, and scotch bonnet pepper (don’t burst it if you want less heat).
Simmer for 20–30 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Mix flour and salt, then add water gradually to make a firm dough.
Pinch off small pieces and roll into long dumplings.
Add to the pot and cook for another 10–15 minutes until they float and are cooked through.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or all-purpose seasoning.
Simmer until thick and creamy. If it gets too thick, add a little more water or coconut milk.
Pig's tail can be salty, so soaking or boiling is key to reducing the saltiness.
For a vegetarian option, use red peas only with coconut milk and skip the meat.
You can add other meats like beef, chicken foot, or salt beef for a richer flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the pig's tail and using only red peas with coconut milk. The stew will still be delicious and hearty.
How do I reduce the saltiness of the pig's tail?
The pig's tail can be quite salty, so it's important to soak it in cold water for several hours or overnight, or boil it for 10 minutes, drain, and repeat once or twice before adding it to the stew.
Can I use canned kidney beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned kidney beans. Just add them after the pig's tail is tender and simmer for about 15 minutes.
How can I control the spiciness of the stew?
The scotch bonnet pepper adds a lot of heat, so if you want less spice, add the pepper whole and avoid bursting it during cooking. You can also remove it before serving.
What are spinners and can I skip them?
Spinners are small, handmade dumplings that are added to the stew. They add a nice texture and flavor. While you can skip them, they are a traditional part of the dish and worth trying.
