Indulge your senses and embark on a culinary journey like no other as we delve deeper into the captivating allure of Bonaire’s national dish, Stoba Kabritu. From the moment this mouthwatering delicacy touches your lips, you’ll be transported to a realm of delightful flavors that speak volumes about the island’s vibrant cultural tapestry. Passed down through generations, the art of preparing Stoba Kabritu holds a special place in the hearts of Bonaireans, a cherished tradition that transcends time. The tender goat meat, carefully sourced and expertly stewed, is steeped in a medley of spices and herbs that infuse each bite with an unforgettable taste of the Caribbean.
Beyond its gustatory delight, Stoba Kabritu is a culinary symbol of Bonaire’s unique identity and heritage. It symbolizes the resourcefulness and resilience of its people, who skillfully transformed a once-overabundant goat population into a culinary treasure. So, as the aroma of simmering stew fills the air and anticipation builds, join us on an exploration of the history, preparation techniques, and cherished memories that converge on every plate of Stoba Kabritu. Whether you’re a passionate food enthusiast or simply curious about Bonaire’s gastronomic wonders, this iconic dish promises to leave an indelible mark on your taste buds and your heart.
Stoba Kabritu
Ingredients
For the marinade:
- 2 kg 4.4 lbs goat meat, cut into chunks
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
For the stew:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large onions sliced
- 3 large tomatoes diced
- 3 bell peppers a mix of colors, sliced
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, ground black pepper, ground cloves, white vinegar, soy sauce, and vegetable oil. Add the chunks of goat meat and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Remove the goat meat from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off, and reserve the marinade for later.
- Sear the marinated goat meat in the pot until browned on all sides. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Once browned, remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook until they become translucent and slightly caramelized. Then, add the diced tomatoes and sliced bell peppers, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Return the seared goat meat to the pot with the vegetables. Pour in the reserved marinade and add the beef or vegetable broth. Stir well and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer gently for about 2 to 3 hours or until the goat meat becomes tender and falls off the bone. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.
- Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Traditionally, Stoba Kabritu is served with Funchi (cornmeal side dish) or rice. Enjoy the hearty and flavorful taste of Bonaire’s national dish with your family and friends!