If you’re craving a hearty, slow-cooked meal bursting with Caribbean flavors, this Haitian Beef Stew (Bouyon Bèf) is a must-try! Tender chunks of beef simmer in a rich, spiced tomato broth with hearty vegetables and bold seasonings, creating a dish that’s both comforting and packed with authentic Haitian flavors.
The best part? This slow cooker version makes it incredibly easy to prepare—just set it and forget it! Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this stew is guaranteed to warm your soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Authentic Caribbean Flavor – A bold mix of Haitian spices and herbs.
✔️ Slow Cooker Convenience – Minimal effort with maximum flavor.
✔️ Tender, Fall-Apart Beef – Cooked low and slow for perfect texture.
✔️ Hearty & Filling – Loaded with potatoes, carrots, and plantains.
✔️ Great for Meal Prep – Even better the next day!
Ingredients for Haitian Beef Stew (Slow Cooker)
For the Beef:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast, brisket, or short ribs)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice or vinegar (for cleaning the meat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Haitian epis (green seasoning, optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
For the Stew:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 large potatoes, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 ripe plantain, sliced (optional but adds sweetness)
- 1 scotch bonnet or habanero pepper, whole (for mild heat, remove before serving)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Haitian seasoning blend or adobo seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon cloves or allspice (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
✔️ Slow Cooker (Crockpot) – 6-quart or larger.
✔️ Large Skillet – For browning the beef.
✔️ Knife & Cutting Board – For prepping ingredients.
✔️ Wooden Spoon – For stirring the stew.
How to Make Haitian Beef Stew in the Slow Cooker
Step 1: Prep & Season the Beef
Rinse the beef with lime juice or vinegar, then pat dry. Season with salt, pepper, Haitian epis, paprika, and thyme. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended)
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Assemble the Stew in the Slow Cooker
Add the onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, bell pepper, plantain, and whole scotch bonnet pepper to the slow cooker. Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, seasoning blend, bay leaf, and cloves.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Remove the bay leaf and scotch bonnet pepper. Stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with white rice, fried plantains, or Haitian bread.
What to Serve with Haitian Beef Stew
🍚 White Rice or Rice & Beans – A perfect base for soaking up the flavorful broth.
🥖 Haitian Bread (Pain Haitien) – Great for dipping.
🍌 Fried Plantains (Banan Peze) – Adds a crispy, slightly sweet contrast.
🥗 Avocado Slices or Cabbage Slaw – Refreshing side to balance the richness.
Pro Tips for the Best Haitian Beef Stew
✔️ Use Bone-In Beef – Oxtail or short ribs add extra richness to the broth.
✔️ Don’t Skip Searing – Browning the meat deepens the flavor.
✔️ Control the Spice – Leave the scotch bonnet whole for mild heat, or slice it open for more spice.
✔️ Let It Sit Overnight – The flavors develop even more the next day!
✔️ Thicken the Stew – If you want a thicker consistency, mash a few potatoes before serving.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low, adding broth if needed.
- Microwave: Warm in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Freezing:
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes! Simmer on the stovetop over low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Can I use different meats?
Absolutely! Try oxtail, goat, or chicken for a twist.
What if I don’t have Haitian epis?
Substitute with a mix of garlic, green onions, parsley, thyme, and bell peppers blended with olive oil.
Is this stew spicy?
It has mild heat from the scotch bonnet, but you can adjust by adding or removing it.
Final Thoughts – Why You’ll Love This Haitian Beef Stew!
This Haitian Beef Stew (Slow Cooker) is rich, flavorful, and packed with Caribbean spices. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a deep, savory broth, it’s a meal that brings warmth and comfort in every bite.
More Comforting Caribbean Recipes to Try:
- Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes – A creamy, slow-cooked favorite!
- Haitian Griot (Crispy Fried Pork) – A delicious Haitian classic.
- Jamaican Curry Goat – Another Caribbean stew packed with bold flavors.
Now, grab your slow cooker and let’s get cooking! 🍲🔥