Bouyon

Ingredients

2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed)
1/2 pound pig tail (optional, or additional beef for a different flavor)
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, peeled and diced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
1 small hot pepper (Scotch bonnet or habanero), whole or chopped
1 cup pumpkin, peeled and cubed
1 cup yams, peeled and cubed
1 cup dasheen (taro), peeled and cubed (optional)
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon thyme (fresh or dried)
4 cups beef or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon cooking oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Meat

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef and pig tail (if using). Brown the meat on all sides.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Saut√© until the vegetables are softened.

Add Seasonings

Stir in the tomato paste, soy sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Cook for a few minutes until the tomato paste is well incorporated.

Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the beef or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.

Add Root Vegetables

Add the carrots, potatoes, pumpkin, yams, and dasheen (if using) to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes.

Finish and Garnish

Adjust seasoning as needed. Stir in the chopped parsley just before serving.