Island spiced beef and chicken roti

Roti

island spiced beef and chicken roti

By:

Savory Touch

Published:

18 Jul 2025
Island spiced beef and chicken roti
I remember the first time I had roti. It was at a small street vendor in Trinidad, the air thick with the scent of spices and the sound of soca music. The warm, soft flatbread cradled a savory mix of curried meat and vegetables, each bite an explosion of flavor. I was hooked! That experience inspired me to recreate this beloved dish at home, and after many attempts, I’ve finally perfected a recipe that captures the essence of island cooking. It’s a labor of love, but trust me, the results are worth every second. Nothing beats the satisfaction of seeing faces light up when they taste it.
Close-up of a freshly made roti filled with spiced beef and chicken
This Island Spiced Beef & Chicken Roti recipe is more than just a meal; it's a culinary journey that brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to your kitchen. Imagine tender pieces of beef and chicken, slow-cooked in a rich blend of aromatic spices, nestled in a soft, flaky roti. The combination is simply irresistible! What makes this roti exceptional is the careful balance of spices and the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking to spice up your weeknight dinner, this roti recipe is sure to impress.
A person holding an Island Spiced Beef & Chicken Roti, ready to take a bite
The best part about this recipe? It's surprisingly adaptable. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, swap out vegetables, or even use different types of meat. The key is to have fun and experiment with the flavors until you find your perfect combination. Cooking should be an adventure, not a chore! So, grab your apron, turn on some music, and let’s get started on this delicious island-inspired creation. I promise, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Caribbean.
Overhead shot of various spices used in Caribbean cooking

Required Equipments

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Dutch Oven or Large Pot
  • Rolling Pin
  • Griddle or Tawa
  • Food Processor (optional)
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Island Spiced Beef and Chicken Roti: Frequently Asked Questions

Island Spiced Beef and Chicken Roti

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this Island Spiced Beef & Chicken Roti recipe! Tender meat and flavorful spices wrapped in soft, homemade roti.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 6 servings

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 90 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Beef: In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken and beef. Marinate with 2 tablespoons of curry powder, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, 1 tablespoon of allspice, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Ensure the meat is evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a Dutch oven or large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the peppers are slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the grated ginger and scotch bonnet pepper (if using); be cautious with the scotch bonnet, as it can be very spicy!
  3. Cook the Meat: Add the marinated chicken and beef to the pot. Stir well to combine with the aromatics. Cook until the meat is browned on all sides. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Add the diced potatoes and carrots to the pot. Pour in the beef broth or stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meat and vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the pot and stir well. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for a burst of freshness.
  5. Prepare the Roti Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
  6. Rest the Dough: Form the dough into a ball. Lightly grease the mixing bowl with vegetable oil, place the dough back in the bowl, and turn to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.
  7. Divide and Roll the Dough: Divide the dough into equal portions, about 6-8 pieces, depending on the size you want the roti to be. On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll each portion into a thin circle, about 8-10 inches in diameter. The thinner the roti, the better!
  8. Cook the Roti: Heat a griddle or tawa over medium heat. Place one roti on the hot surface and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it starts to puff up and develop golden-brown spots. Lightly brush with melted butter or ghee for added flavor and softness. Keep the cooked roti warm in a clean kitchen towel while you cook the remaining roti.
  9. Assemble the Roti: Place a generous amount of the spiced beef and chicken mixture in the center of each roti. Fold the sides of the roti over the filling, like a wrap, or simply fold it in half. Serve immediately and enjoy!

📝 Notes

    🍎 Nutrition

    Calories: 650 kcal

    Protein: 45g

    Fat: 30g

    Carbohydrates: 60g

    Fiber: 8g

    Calcium: 150mg

    Food is our common ground, a universal experience. – James Beard

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