Delicious Jamaican Cow Foot and Butter Beans

by | Jan 10, 2025 | Beef, Recipes | 0 comments

Hey there, family! Let’s bring a taste of Jamaica to your kitchen with one of our most beloved comfort dishes—Cow Foot and Butter Beans. This dish is a true labor of love, simmered low and slow to create the perfect blend of rich, savory flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. The addition of creamy butter beans elevates the texture and balances out the bold, aromatic spices that make Jamaican cuisine so unforgettable.

It’s more than just a meal—a celebration of tradition, flavor, and togetherness. Growing up, this dish always brought my family together around the table, sharing stories and laughter while savoring every bite. As it simmers away, the aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water and create that feeling of home.

Whether you’re new to Jamaican cooking or revisiting a childhood favorite, this recipe is a must-try. Perfect for a Sunday dinner, a cozy weeknight, or any time you want to share a bit of Jamaica with your loved ones. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this, you’ll return for seconds—and thirds!

Tender cow foot and butter beans

Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 4 people,

  • 2 lbs cow foot
  • 1/2 cup butter beans (pre-cooked)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 sprigs thyme
  • 2 stalks scallion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 5-6 pimento berries (allspice), crushed
  • 1 scotch bonnet pepper
  • 1 tablespoon browning sauce
  • 1-2 teaspoons all-purpose or meat seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 4-5 cups beef stock or water
  • 1 lime or lemon (for cleaning)
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar (for cleaning)

Cleaning Method

  1. Clean the cow’s foot with lime or lemon and vinegar.
  2. Scald the cow foot in boiling water for a few minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Seasoning the Cow Foot

Let’s get things started with the all-important seasoning! Take your cow foot and place it in a large bowl. This is where we begin building those signature Jamaican flavors. Combine Maggie seasoning, all-purpose seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and ground pimento in a separate small bowl. Now, generously sprinkle this aromatic blend over the cow foot, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. Don’t be shy—massage the seasoning with your hands to ensure all that flavor penetrates deep into the meat. This step sets the stage for the rich, savory goodness to come.

Seasoning the cow foot

Now, it’s time to bring in the big flavor boosters! Add a splash of soy sauce and a drizzle of browning sauce for that rich, dark color and depth of flavor. Next, pour in some Grace fish and meat sauce—this is where the magic happens. Don’t forget to add a generous dollop of ketchup for a hint of sweetness and balance and a dash of BW pepper sauce for that signature Jamaican kick. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the cow foot is well-coated in this flavorful marinade. Let it sit for a while, allowing all these bold flavors to soak into the meat. Patience is key here—the longer it marinates, the more delicious your dish will be

Cooking the Cow Foot

Heat up some oil in your pot, ensuring it’s nice and hot before you start. Carefully add the marinated cow foot, and listen to that satisfying sizzle—the sound of flavor coming alive! Sauté the pieces for a few minutes, letting them brown beautifully. This step deepens the flavor and helps the seasonings soak into the meat. Take your time here; that golden color is the foundation of the rich, hearty dish we’re creating

Sautéing the cow foot

Once your cow foot is beautifully browned, it’s time to add just enough water to cover it. This will create a rich base as the cow foot releases its natural gelatin, giving the dish its signature texture. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer. While you can use a pressure cooker for speed, we’re embracing the traditional slow-cooking method today. Patience is key here—allowing the cow foot to cook slowly ensures it becomes tender, flavorful, and irresistible.

Adding Vegetables and Butter Beans

Once the cow foot has tenderized, it’s time to add the rest of your vegetables. Toss in the sweet peppers, scallions, thyme, carrots, onions, and garlic. This is where the magic happens!

Adding vegetables to the cow foot

Now it’s time to add the butter beans—the heart of this dish! You can’t have a proper cow foot stew without them, right? Gently fold the butter beans into the pot, making sure they blend into the rich, flavorful broth. Let it all simmer together a little longer, allowing the buttery beans to soak up the seasonings and create that creamy, irresistible finish. This is the moment when everything comes together—pure Jamaican comfort in a pot

The Final Touches

Simmering Time and Final Touches

After adding the vegetables and butter beans, let your Jamaican Cow Foot and Butter Beans simmer gently for 20-25 minutes on low heat. This is the key stage where all the flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty dish.

Key Simmering Details

  • Use a low heat setting to maintain a gentle simmer.
  • Keep the pot partially covered to allow the flavors to concentrate while retaining moisture.
  • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
  • Simmer for 20-25 minutes, checking the liquid levels regularly. Add more stock or water if necessary to maintain the desired consistency.

Optional: Spinner Dumplings

For an extra touch of authenticity and heartiness, you can add spinner dumplings during the last 10-15 minutes of simmering.

  • Submerge partially in the liquid to allow them to soak up the flavors.
  • Ensure they cook thoroughly but retain their signature firmness.

Doneness Check

Before serving, confirm the following:

  • The cow foot is tender and melts in your mouth.
  • The butter beans are soft but hold their shape.
  • The liquid is slightly thickened and full of depth.
  • All the flavors are beautifully integrated, creating a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Tip: Cooking times may vary based on your pot, stove, and the freshness of your ingredients. Adjust as needed to achieve perfection.

Adding Spinners to the pot

Serving Suggestions

Your Jamaican Cow Foot with Butter Beans is ready to shine! This hearty, flavor-packed dish pairs beautifully with some classic Jamaican sides. For a balanced and vibrant meal, consider serving it with:

  • Steamed Pumpkin: Adds a natural sweetness that complements the savory richness.
  • Boiled Yam and Carrots: Earthy flavors to round out the plate.
  • Steamed Cabbage: A light and healthy addition to cut through the boldness of the dish.
  • Rice and Peas: The ultimate sidekick, soaking up every drop of that delicious sauce.

Final dish of cow foot with butter beans

Enjoy this beautiful and hearty meal that is sure to impress! Don’t forget to share your experience and let us know how your Jamaican cow foot turns out. Happy cooking!

Thank you for joining me today. Remember to like, share, and come back for more delicious recipes!

Written By D W

About the Author

Hello, I’m Donna, your kitchen companion and green-thumbed friend! My roots are in Jamaica, where I grew up savoring the vibrant flavors of traditional dishes and learning the art of gardening from my family. Now, I’m bringing those cherished memories and recipes to life, alongside practical gardening tips, to inspire your journey in creating delicious meals and cultivating fresh produce. Let’s celebrate the joy of food, the magic of the garden, and the warmth of sharing it all with loved ones!

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