Try this Caribbean jackfruit pepperpot stew recipe
The Caribbean jackfruit pepperpot stew is a vibrant, hearty dish, bringing tropical Caribbean flavors to your table. Originating from the islands' rich culinary traditions, it's celebrated for its spicy, sweet, and savory blend. Traditionally made with meat, our version introduces jackfruit as a vegetarian alternative. Jackfruit's unique texture and flavor absorption make the dish both satisfying and inclusive. Let's get cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
You'll need two 20-ounce cans of young green jackfruit, one large chopped onion, three minced garlic cloves, one diced red and one green bell pepper, two sliced carrots, an optional Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper, four cups vegetable broth, a 14-ounce can of coconut milk, two tablespoons soy sauce or tamari, one tablespoon allspice powder, two teaspoons dried thyme leaves, and salt.
Preparing the jackfruit
Start by preparing the jackfruit. First, drain and rinse it thoroughly to eliminate any brine taste. Then, using either your hands or a fork, shred it into pieces that mimic the texture of pulled meat. This step is essential for allowing the jackfruit to absorb the stew's flavors more effectively. After shredding, set it aside for later use in the recipe.
Sauteing vegetables
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of vegetable oil. Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauteing until they become translucent and fragrant. Next, introduce both diced bell peppers and carrots to the pot. Cook these vegetables for about five minutes, until they begin to soften but still retain some bite.
Adding spices & jackfruit
Add the shredded jackfruit to your sauteed vegetables, along with allspice powder and dried thyme leaves. If you're incorporating a Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper for some heat, now is the time to do so. Stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring the spices are well distributed among all ingredients. Allow it to cook for another five minutes, letting the flavors blend seamlessly together.
Simmering the stew
Pour vegetable broth and coconut milk into the pot with the jackfruit mixture. Add soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. Simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until the stew thickens and flavors deepen. Adjust salt to taste. Serve hot with rice or bread, ensuring a mix of ingredients in each bite. Enjoy this Caribbean warmth at home!
