Brown Stewed Hen Recipe: A Hearty Twist on a Jamaican Classic

This dish stays true to Jamaican flavors—bold, spicy, and slightly sweet—but adapts the cooking process for hens. Served with steamed white rice and a crisp Caesar salad, it’s a satisfying meal that brings warmth to any table.

Ingredients

• whole hen (about 4-5 lbs), cut into pieces (or use bone-in thighs & legs)

• 2 tbsp browning sauce (for color)

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 3 tbsp Jamaican Jerk Dry Seasoning

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 1 bell pepper, sliced

• 2 scallions, chopped

• 1 scotch bonnet pepper (whole, for flavor—do not burst!)

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 2 tbsp ketchup or tomato paste

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 2 carrots, chopped (optional)

• 2 potatoes, cubed (optional)

Directions

1. Marinate the Hen

   In a large bowl, season the hen pieces with browning sauce (if using) and all the seasonings listed above.

   Massage the seasoning into the meat, ensuring even coverage. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).

2. Brown the Hen

   Heat vegetable oil in a heavy pot (Dutch oven works great) over medium-high heat.

   In batches, brown the hen pieces on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

   In the same pot, add onion, bell pepper, scallions, and whole scotch bonnet pepper. Sauté for 23 minutes until fragrant.

   Stir in ketchup or tomato paste and cook for another minute.

4. Braise the Hen

   Return the hen to the pot. Pour in chicken broth—it should come about halfway up the meat.

   Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

   After 1 hour, add carrots and potatoes (if using) and continue cooking until the hen is fork tender and the gravy has thickened.

5. Adjust & Serve

   Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

   Remove the scotch bonnet pepper before serving (unless you want extra heat—then you can slice it!).

   Serving Suggestions: Steamed white rice (to soak up the delicious gravy) Caesar salad (for a fresh, crisp contrast)

   Fried plantains or steamed veggies (optional)