Perry Bay Stew

Perry Bay Stew Recipe - a Delicious Panamanian Dish with Peas, Corned Beef, and Tuna

Region / culture: Panama | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Perry Bay Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This stew is packed with a variety of vegetables and protein, making it a well-rounded meal that is sure to satisfy your hunger.

History

Perry Bay Stew has been a favorite in many households for generations. This recipe originated in the coastal town of Perry Bay, where fishermen would make this stew using fresh seafood caught from the bay. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients, making it a versatile and delicious dish.

Ingredients

1 lb 2 oz can of peas, green beans, lima beans, and corn (including juice)
1 large can of chopped or stewed tomatoes with juice
1 large can of tomato juice
1 can of corned beef, broken up into pieces
0.5 head of cabbage, diced into 1.5 x 0.5 inch pieces
2 large onions, diced as with cabbage
3 large carrots, sliced round 0.06th inch thick
3 - 4 medium-sized potatoes, cubed (dice-sized)
salt, pepper, and hot sauce as desired
Approximately 30 pieces of fresh tuna, each measuring 1 inch by 1 inch (Unfortunately, most of us nowadays can't get good fresh tuna, so I have often used freshwater bass or some other solid meat)

How to prepare

In a large pot with a tight-fitting lid, add all the above ingredients except for the.
If needed, add a little extra water to ensure that the ingredients are fully covered.
Bring the mixture to a boil, taking care not to burn it as the tomato juice is very rich.
Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and stir occasionally until the carrots are tender.
Next, add the and continue cooking over medium heat for another 20 minutes or so.

Variations

For a seafood twist, consider adding shrimp or fish to the stew. You can also experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of Perry Bay Stew, consider adding a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Additionally, be sure to stir the stew occasionally to prevent burning and ensure that all the ingredients are cooked evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Perry Bay Stew hot with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

To ensure that the vegetables are cooked evenly, be sure to dice them into uniform sizes. This will help them cook at the same rate and prevent some pieces from being overcooked while others are still undercooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have corned beef on hand, you can substitute it with cooked chicken or turkey for a lighter option. You can also swap out the fresh meat for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of the stew.

Make Ahead Tips

Perry Bay Stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the stew with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve it in a rustic bowl for a cozy and inviting presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Perry Bay Stew with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded and nutritious meal. A glass of red wine or a cold beer would also complement the flavors of the stew nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Perry Bay Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Perry Bay Stew typically contains around 350-400 calories, making it a filling and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

Perry Bay Stew is a carbohydrate-rich dish, with ingredients such as potatoes, corn, and cabbage providing a good source of energy for your body.

Fats

The corned beef in Perry Bay Stew adds a rich and savory flavor, but also contributes to the fat content of the dish. Be mindful of portion sizes to keep your fat intake in check.

Proteins

With a combination of corned beef and fresh meat, Perry Bay Stew is a protein-packed meal that will help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

The variety of vegetables in Perry Bay Stew, including cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, provide a range of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

Perry Bay Stew may contain allergens such as gluten from the corned beef or soy from the hot sauce. Be sure to check ingredient labels if you have any food allergies.

Summary

Overall, Perry Bay Stew is a well-balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals to support your overall health and well-being.

Summary

Perry Bay Stew is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with a variety of vegetables and protein, this stew is a well-rounded meal that is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to take a walk down to the local farmer's market to pick up some fresh vegetables. As I strolled through the bustling stalls, I came across an elderly woman selling a variety of homemade jams and preserves. Intrigued by her selection, I struck up a conversation with her, and she mentioned a special recipe she had for a delicious seafood stew called Perry Bay Stew.

I was immediately captivated by the sound of this dish, as I had always been a fan of seafood and was eager to try something new. The woman, whose name was Mrs. Jenkins, kindly offered to share the recipe with me, explaining that it had been passed down through generations in her family and was a beloved favorite. I gratefully accepted her offer, feeling honored to receive such a treasured recipe.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could sense the love and care that had gone into creating this dish. The combination of fresh seafood, flavorful herbs, and fragrant spices promised a rich and satisfying meal that would be perfect for a special occasion. I immediately set to work gathering the necessary ingredients and preparing to make Perry Bay Stew for dinner that evening.

Following Mrs. Jenkins' detailed instructions, I began by sautéing onions and garlic in a large pot, filling my kitchen with a heavenly aroma. Next, I added in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and a splash of white wine, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a savory base for the stew. Then came the star of the show - a medley of fresh seafood including shrimp, scallops, and crab meat, which I gently folded into the simmering broth.

As the stew bubbled away on the stove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation and excitement. The rich colors and enticing smells filled me with a deep sense of satisfaction, knowing that I was creating something truly special. I added in a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning and a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick, tasting and adjusting the flavors until they were just right.

Finally, after letting the stew simmer and thicken to perfection, I ladled it into bowls and garnished each serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The moment I took my first bite, I knew that I had stumbled upon a culinary masterpiece. The tender seafood, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices combined to create a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds with each spoonful.

As I savored each mouthful of Perry Bay Stew, I couldn't help but reflect on the journey that had led me to this moment. From the chance encounter with Mrs. Jenkins at the farmer's market to the hours spent in my kitchen lovingly preparing this dish, I felt a deep connection to the recipe and the history behind it. It was more than just a meal - it was a story, a memory, a piece of my own culinary legacy.

And so, as I sat at the table enjoying my Perry Bay Stew, I knew that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart for years to come. It was a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to evoke memories and emotions, and to create moments of joy and connection. I felt grateful for the opportunity to learn and share this recipe, knowing that it would continue to bring happiness and nourishment to my family for generations to come. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time may have been a simple moment in time, but its impact on my life and my love for cooking would be everlasting.