Name: Caribbean Brown Stew Salmon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1 lime or lemon (for cleaning the fish); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp allspice (pimento); 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced; 1 scotch bonnet pepper (or other chili), chopped; 2 tomatoes, chopped; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup fish or vegetable broth; 1 carrot, sliced; 2 tbsp cooking oil

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Short Description

Caribbean Brown Stew Salmon is a rich, flavorful dish that brings together the bold spices of the islands with the heartiness of salmon. This dish features a deeply seasoned, pan-seared salmon fillet simmered in a savory and slightly sweet brown stew sauce infused with aromatic herbs, peppers, and Caribbean spices. Perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers seeking a comforting, tropical-inspired meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Caribbean flavors – The dish incorporates a blend of allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper for an authentic island taste.
Healthy and nutrient-rich – Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish both delicious and good for you.
Easy to make – Despite its complex flavor, this dish comes together in a simple cooking process that doesn’t require extensive culinary skills.
Customizable – Easily adjust the spice level, sweetness, or ingredients to match personal preferences.
Perfect for any occasion – Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this stew offers warmth and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Salmon fillets
Lime or lemon (for cleaning the fish)
Salt
Black pepper
Allspice (pimento)
Thyme (fresh or dried)
Garlic
Onion
Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
Scotch bonnet pepper (or other chili of choice)
Tomatoes
Tomato paste
Brown sugar
Soy sauce
Worcestershire sauce
Fish or vegetable broth
Carrot
Cooking oil

Directions

Prepare the Salmon: Rinse the salmon fillets with lime or lemon juice and pat dry. Season with salt, black pepper, and allspice. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Sear the Salmon: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear the salmon fillets for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Stew Base: In the same pan, add more oil if necessary. Sauté the onion, garlic, thyme, and bell peppers until fragrant. Add the scotch bonnet pepper and carrots, cooking for a few minutes.
Develop the Sauce: Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until the tomatoes break down and form a thick sauce.
Simmer the Stew: Pour in the broth, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Add the Salmon: Carefully place the seared salmon fillets into the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the fillets and let them simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Final Touches: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute salmon with tofu or hearty vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms.
Milder Version: Reduce or omit the scotch bonnet pepper for a less spicy dish.
Sweeter Twist: Add a bit of coconut milk or extra brown sugar for a sweeter, creamier sauce.
Herb Swap: Use cilantro or parsley for a different fresh herbal note.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to prevent overcooking.
Freezing: Not recommended as the texture of the salmon may become mushy upon thawing.

FAQs

How spicy is this dish?

It depends on the amount of scotch bonnet pepper used. You can adjust the spice level by adding less or omitting it altogether.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking to achieve the best texture.

What can I serve with Caribbean Brown Stew Salmon?

It pairs well with rice and peas, fried plantains, steamed vegetables, or mashed sweet potatoes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat and add freshly cooked salmon when ready to serve.

What type of broth is best?

Fish or vegetable broth works best to enhance the flavors of the stew without overpowering the salmon.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Let the sauce simmer longer to reduce naturally, or add a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water) to thicken it quickly.

Is there a substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

You can use soy sauce mixed with a little vinegar and a pinch of sugar as a substitute.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, this recipe works well with snapper, tilapia, or cod.

Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function for the base and then pressure cook on low for about 5 minutes before a quick release.

How do I make the dish less salty?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth, and taste-test before adding more salt.

Conclusion

Caribbean Brown Stew Salmon is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Caribbean to your kitchen. Its rich, aromatic sauce, combined with tender, flaky salmon, makes for a deeply satisfying meal. Whether you love bold spices or want to explore Caribbean cuisine, this dish is an excellent choice. Try it today and bring a taste of the islands to your dinner table!

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