Barbadian Gulaš - A Caribbean Twist on a Croatian Classic

Ingredients

In this Barbadian adaptation of Slavonski gulaš, we incorporate Barbadian ingredients and flavors to give the dish a Caribbean twist. The addition of Scotch bonnet peppers adds a spicy kick, while coconut milk brings a creamy and tropical element to the stew. Fresh tropical fruits like mango or pineapple are also added to enhance the sweetness and provide a burst of freshness. We alse have the original recipe for Slavonski gulaš, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) beef stew meat, cubed 2 pounds (900g) beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced
• 2 tablespoons Barbadian curry powder 2 tablespoons Barbadian curry powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups (470ml) beef broth 2 cups (470ml) beef broth
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup (240ml) diced tomatoes 1 cup (240ml) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (240ml) diced fresh tropical fruit (mango, pineapple, etc.) 1 cup (240ml) diced fresh tropical fruit (mango, pineapple, etc.)
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 5g
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the Barbadian curry powder, paprika, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and spices.
4. 4.
   Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth, coconut milk, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
5. 5.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   Add the diced tropical fruit to the pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf.
8. 8.
   Serve the Barbadian Gulaš hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. It pairs perfectly with rice or bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef stew meat — For the best results, choose a tender cut of beef suitable for slow cooking, such as chuck or round roast. Trim any excess fat before cubing.
• Barbadian curry powder — If you can't find Barbadian curry powder, you can substitute it with a mild or medium curry powder of your choice.
• Scotch bonnet pepper — Handle with caution as it is very spicy. Wear gloves while handling and mincing the pepper, and adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
• Coconut milk — Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamy and rich texture. Shake the can well before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.
• Fresh tropical fruit — Choose ripe and sweet tropical fruits like mango or pineapple to add a burst of freshness to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the beef cubes in the Barbadian curry powder and a splash of lime juice for a few hours before cooking.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less Scotch bonnet pepper, or by using a milder pepper variety.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Allow the stew to rest for a while before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to deepen and intensify.

Serving advice

Serve Barbadian Gulaš hot over a bed of fluffy white rice or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the Barbadian Gulaš in a deep serving dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the stew to shine through. Sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro on top for an appealing touch. Serve with a side of rice or bread.