Authentic Jamaican Stew Peas Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Main Stew:

• 1 ½ cups dried red kidney beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)

• 1 lb salted pig’s tail ( salted beef, chicken or smoked turkey neck or a combination of various meat)

• ¾ cup thick coconut milk (fresh or canned)

• 3 cloves garlic, crushed

• 2 stalks scallion (green onion), chopped

• 2 sprigs thyme

• 1 small onion, chopped

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for heat)

• Salt to taste

• 4–5 cups water

For the Spinners (Dumplings):

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• Pinch of salt

• Enough water to knead into a stiff dough (about ¼ cup)

How to Cook Jamaican Stew Peas:

Step 1: Prep and Soak (if using dried beans)

• Soak the kidney beans overnight in water to soften them.

• Boil the pig’s tail or salted meat for 10–15 minutes to reduce excess salt. Drain and rinse. Repeat once more if it’s very salty.

Step 2: Cook the Beans

• In a large pot, combine the soaked beans and salted meat with about 4–5 cups of fresh water.

• Boil on medium heat until the beans are tender and the meat is cooked (about 1 to 1.5 hours). Add more water if needed while boiling.

Step 3: Add Coconut Milk & Seasonings

• Once beans are soft, pour in the coconut milk, then add garlic, onion, thyme, green onion, black pepper, and whole Scotch bonnet (don’t burst it if you want mild heat).

• Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The stew should start to thicken.

Step 4: Make & Add Spinners

• Mix the flour, a pinch of salt, and water to form a firm dough.

• Pinch off small pieces and roll between your palms to make long, thin dumplings (“spinners”).

• Add them to the pot and cook for another 10–15 minutes, or until they float and are fully cooked.

Step 5: Taste & Finish

• Taste and adjust salt as needed (remember the meat is already salty).

• Simmer until the stew is rich and creamy, with a slight thickness from the beans and coconut milk.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve hot with white rice or even on its own as a hearty stew.

• Pair it with a cool drink like sorrel, limeade, or ginger beer.

Craving authentic Jamaican Stew Peas but not sure where to start? Let’s cook it together!
If you're in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Milton, or Oakville, you can book a private Jamaican cooking experience and learn how to make this rich, comforting dish step by step—right in your own kitchen.
We bring the ingredients, the culture, and the vibes. You bring your appetite!
Book your session today and taste the tradition!