How to Cook Turtle Stew | Cayman Islands National Dish | Cayman Heritage Guide

turtle meat

💰Cheaper: chicken

Chicken is more widely available and less expensive.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil is healthier, while canola oil is cheaper.

diced tomatoes

💰Cheaper: canned tomatoes

Canned tomatoes are often less expensive.

chicken stock

💰Cheaper: water

Using water is a cost-saving alternative.

Prepare turtle fin by boiling for 30 minutes, then place in cooler water before peeling.

Peel the fin carefully to save as much of the sticky part as possible.

Cut the fin into pieces, removing bones as necessary, and add to the prepared meat.

Season the turtle meat with 2 tablespoons of sea salt and 2 heaping teaspoons of black pepper.

Add chopped onion, seasoned peppers, and a piece of garlic to the meat.

Place turtle fat at the bottom of a pot to help cook the meat.

Cut turtle meat into 1-inch pieces and add to the pot, layering with more seasoning and vegetables.

Cover the pot and start cooking on medium heat, allowing the meat to generate its own water.

Cook on low heat for about 4 hours, checking occasionally and adjusting salt as needed.

After about 2 hours, remove the pot cover to allow the meat to darken without adding browning sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens