Curaçaoan Yuana (iguana) Stew

Curaçaoan Yuana (Iguana) Stew is a traditional dish from the Caribbean island of Curaçao. This hearty stew is packed with bold flavors and is a favorite among locals.

Curaçaoan Yuana (iguana) Stew

Ingredients

  • 1 whole iguana, cleaned and cut into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 scotch bonnet pepper, whole
  • 2 sprigs thyme
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the iguana pieces and brown on all sides, then remove from the pot and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
  4. Add the tomatoes, scotch bonnet pepper, and thyme, then return the iguana pieces to the pot.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2 hours, or until the iguana is tender.
  7. Remove the scotch bonnet pepper and thyme sprigs before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
2 hours
Total time:
2 hours
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large pot Cutting board Knife Wooden spoon

Tools

Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Serve the Curaçaoan Yuana Stew with a side of rice and fried plantains for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membrane from the scotch bonnet pepper before adding it to the stew.

Cost

$20