Metemgee (Guyanese Ground Provision Stew)

Metemgee is a beloved traditional dish from Guyana, deeply rooted in the country’s rich cultural mosaic and culinary heritage. This hearty stew is a comforting, soul-warming meal that combines a variety of ground provisions (root vegetables), flavorful coconut milk, and seasoned proteins. With African, Indian, and Caribbean influences, Metemgee is more than just food — it’s a cultural experience often shared among family and friends.

Ingredients

Proteins (optional but traditional):

• 1 lb salted cod, soaked and boiled (or chicken, beef, or smoked meat)

Ground Provisions (root vegetables):

• 1 lb cassava (yucca), peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 lb plantains (green), peeled and cut into thick slices
• 1 lb pumpkin or squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 carrot, sliced

Aromatics and Seasoning:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper (do not cut)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cube chicken or vegetable bouillon (optional)

Stew Base:

• 1 can (14 oz / 400 ml) coconut milk
• 4 cups water (adjust as needed)
• 1–2 tbsp oil (vegetable or coconut oil)

Dumplings (optional):

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• Water, to form dough

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dumplings (if using)

   In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Gradually add water to form a soft dough. Shape into small balls or finger-like dumplings. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and softened.

3. Add Seasonings

   Stir in thyme and bay leaf. If using bouillon, crumble it in. Add the whole Scotch bonnet pepper (keep it whole to prevent overwhelming heat).

4. Build the Stew Base

   Pour in coconut milk and water. Bring to a gentle boil.

5. Add Ground Provisions

   Add cassava, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrot, and plantains. Stir gently. Cover and simmer on low for 20–30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

6. Add Protein and Dumplings

   Add cooked salted cod (or other meat) and dumplings. Simmer for another 10–15 minutes, until the dumplings are fully cooked and everything is well combined.

7. Adjust Seasoning

   Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. If the stew is too thick, add a little more water to adjust consistency.

8. Serve

   Serve Metemgee hot as a standalone dish, or pair it with rice, fried plantains, or bread for a heartier meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and offer hot pepper sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.

Serving

Metemgee is more than a meal — it’s a comforting expression of home, family, and Guyana’s flavorful identity. Whether you enjoy it with fish, meat, or as a vegetarian option, each spoonful delivers warmth, tradition, and deep Caribbean roots.