Jamaican Red Peas Soup Recipe

The vibrant culture of Jamaica is not just reflected in its music, dance, and folklore, but also in its delightful and diverse cuisine. One such culinary gem is the Jamaican Red Peas Soup, a hearty dish often enjoyed on the island, especially on rainy days. Rich in flavor, it’s a fusion of traditional African, British, and Indian influences, showing the multifaceted nature of Jamaican history and culture.

Jamaican Red Peas Soup Recipe

Dive into the heart of Jamaica with our Red Peas Soup recipe. Hearty meats, creamy coconut, and spicy peppers create a flavorful island escape!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Course Main Course

Servings 6 people

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup red kidney beans (referred to as red peas in Jamaica)
• 6 cups water
• 1 lbs beef stew meat preferably with bone-in
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 large onion chopped
• 1 whole scotch bonnet pepper seeds removed and finely chopped
• 2 stalks scallion chopped
• 1 tsp pimento seeds (allspice berries)
• 1 whole sprig thyme
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 large sweet potato peeled and cubed
• 1 whole yam (yellow or white) peeled and cubed
• 1 pinch salt and pepper
• 5 Dumplings (a mix of flour, water, and a pinch of salt, combined to make a stiff dough)

Instructions

 

• Soak the red peas overnight in water.
• In a large pot, combine the soaked peas with fresh water. Add the meat, pig’s tail or ham bone, garlic, onion, scotch bonnet pepper, scallions, pimento seeds, and thyme.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let this cook for about an hour, or until the peas and meat are tender.
• Remove the pig’s tail or ham bone and any meat bones. Add the coconut milk, sweet potato, and yam. Simmer for another 20-30 minutes.
• While the soup simmers, make small round dumplings by pinching off pieces of the dough and rolling them between your hands. Add these to the pot.
• Continue to simmer until the yams and sweet potatoes are tender and the dumplings are cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve hot, preferably with a slice of buttered hard dough bread on the side.

Notes

1. Bean Preparation: Soaking the red peas overnight not only reduces the cooking time but also helps in achieving a consistent texture and richer flavor for the soup.
2. Heat Level: The scotch bonnet pepper is quite spicy. To retain the flavor without too much heat, you can add the whole pepper to the soup without cutting it, then remove it before serving.
3. Alternative Meats: While traditional recipes often incorporate pig's tail or ham bone for a smoky flavor, feel free to omit or substitute with smoked meats like turkey neck or bacon.
4. Dumpling Consistency: The dumplings should be firm but not too dense. Adjust the water in the dough if it's too dry or stiff. They expand slightly when cooked, so keep them small.
5. Coconut Milk: For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk. If you're watching your calorie intake, light coconut milk can be used, but it may result in a less creamy texture.
6. Vegetarian Version: To make this soup vegetarian-friendly, omit the meat and add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or chunks of pumpkin. Consider adding smoked paprika for depth.
7. Storage and Reheating: This soup thickens upon sitting, especially if refrigerated. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of water or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
8. Serving Suggestion: While delicious on its own, the soup pairs beautifully with traditional Jamaican hard dough bread or even rice on the side.

Keyword soups

Why Make Jamaican Red Peas Soup?

This soup is not just a dish; it’s a story of Jamaican heritage in a bowl. Every ingredient, from the red peas to the scotch bonnet pepper, paints a vivid picture of Jamaica’s rich cultural tapestry. Besides its cultural significance, it’s a nutritionally balanced meal, making it perfect for a wholesome family dinner.

How Difficult Is It To Make Jamaican Red Peas Soup?

While the ingredient list might seem lengthy, the process is straightforward. It’s mostly about simmering and melding flavors together. The key to a perfect Red Peas Soup is patience – allowing the ingredients ample time to tenderize and the flavors to blend.

How Does Jamaican Red Peas Soup Taste?

The soup boasts a rich, hearty flavor, with the creaminess of the coconut milk, the spiciness of the scotch bonnet pepper, and the savory depth from the meats. The dumplings add a delightful chewiness, while the yams and sweet potatoes bring a touch of earthy sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use canned red kidney beans?
   Yes, you can, but reduce the cooking time since they’re already softened. However, using dried beans soaked overnight offers a richer flavor.
2. Is the scotch bonnet pepper too spicy?
   Scotch bonnet is spicy but adds a unique flavor. If you’re concerned about the heat, use it sparingly or replace it with a milder pepper.
3. What if I can’t find yam?
   If you can’t find traditional Jamaican yam, you can use regular sweet potatoes or even russet potatoes as a substitute.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Omit the meats and use vegetable broth or water. Add more veggies or tofu for substance.
5. How long will it last in the fridge?
   Stored in an airtight container, the soup should last for 3-4 days. The flavors even deepen over time, making leftovers a treat!

Jamaican Red Peas Soup is more than just a warm meal; it’s a culinary journey. By making this soup, you not only get a delicious dish but also a taste of Jamaica’s rich culture and history. Enjoy every spoonful!