Authentic Jamaican Stew Peas Recipe.

pigtail

🥗Healthier: smoked turkey

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Smoked turkey provides a leaner option, while pork shoulder is more affordable.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: light coconut milk

💰Cheaper: evaporated milk

Light coconut milk reduces calories, while evaporated milk is less expensive.

Soak red peas to soften them before cooking.

Remove excess salt from cured pigtails by soaking them overnight or pre-cooking them in boiling water for 20 minutes.

Place cured pigtails in a soup pot with 4 cups of water and bring to a boil for 20 minutes.

Pour off the salted water and reserve some pork broth for flavor.

Add onion, bay leaves, and ginger to the pot.

Rehydrate scotch bonnet peppers in water, controlling the heat for kids.

Pressure cook the mixture for 30 minutes or simmer in a regular pot for about 2 hours until tender.

Check for doneness by ensuring meats and peas are fork-tender.

Blend 1 cup of cooked red peas and 1 cup of broth with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken the sauce.

Pour the blended mixture back into the pot and stir, allowing it to simmer on medium heat.

Add remaining ingredients: carrots, thyme leaves, scallions, and sweet peppers.

Crush peppercorns and pimentos and add to the sauce for more flavor.

Taste and adjust salt levels, adding powder seasoning if needed.

Finish when the sauce thickens and carrots are cooked through.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: