Spicy Jamaican Pepper Pot Soup with Leafy Greens

A Flavor-Packed Jamaican Classic

This vibrant and spicy soup combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and fiery Scotch bonnet peppers for a heartwarming dish that's perfect anytime.

1 h 30 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Beef chuck

1 lb, cut into 1-inch cubes

Vegetable oil

2 tablespoons

Onion

1, finely chopped

Garlic cloves

3, minced

Scotch bonnet pepper

1, left whole

Beef broth

4 cups

For the Vegetables

Carrots

2, sliced

Sweet potato

1, peeled and diced

Bell pepper

1, diced

Callaloo or spinach

2 cups, roughly chopped

For the Seasoning

Thyme leaves

1 teaspoon

Allspice

1 teaspoon

Salt and pepper

To taste

For the Optional Add-ins

Coconut milk

1 can

Green onions

¼ cup, chopped

Preparation

Marinating the Beef

Season the Beef

Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.

Rest the Beef

Let it sit for 15 minutes at room temperature to absorb the seasoning.

Preparing the Vegetables

Chop Vegetables

Wash and chop all vegetables into desired sizes.

Handle the Scotch Bonnet

Keep the Scotch bonnet whole to add flavor without overwhelming heat.

Always wear gloves when handling Scotch bonnet peppers to avoid skin irritation. Pro Tip: If you prefer more heat, pierce the pepper in a few places to release more flavor.

Cooking Process

Sear the Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot and sear the beef on all sides until browned.

Timing: 10 min. Heat: Medium-high.

Build the Base

Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until translucent.

Simmer the Soup

Pour in the beef broth, add the Scotch bonnet, thyme, and allspice. Bring to a simmer.

Timing: 1 h 20 min. Heat: Low.

Plating & Serving

Spicy Jamaican Pepper Pot Soup with Leafy Greens

FaMugHot

Serve Hot in Bowls

Serve the soup hot in deep bowls, ensuring each portion has a mix of beef, vegetables, and greens.

Sauce Pairings

Coconut Milk

Swirled into the soup for creaminess

Hot Sauce

Served on the side for extra heat

Garnishes & Accompaniments

Chopped Green OnionsFresh Thyme Sprigs

Perfect Sides

Jamaican festival bread

Rice and peas