Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew

Name: Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, grated; 1 can (400ml) coconut milk; 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium sweet potato, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Juice of 1 lime

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Recipes

When I first discovered Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew, I was immediately captivated by its rich flavors and comforting texture. I love how the creamy coconut milk melds beautifully with the spices, creating a dish that feels both luxurious and nourishing. Perfect for any night of the week, this stew is an absolute hit among my friends and family. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and it offers the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Plus, it's quick to whip up, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:45:34.698Z

My first attempt at cooking Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew was a delightful experiment that turned into a favorite family recipe. I was amazed at how the chickpeas absorb all the flavors of the coconut milk and spices, making each spoonful an explosion of taste. To add depth, I often tweak the spice levels, sometimes adding a dash of cayenne for a little kick.

Through trial and error, I learned that allowing the stew to simmer gently helps develop its flavor. I’ve found that serving it with fresh cilantro and lime elevates the dish even more. It brings a refreshing contrast to the creamy components, ensuring every bite is memorable.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut milk enhances the dish, making it incredibly comforting
Chickpeas provide a hearty texture and rich plant-based protein
Flavors of Jamaican spices create a delightful and aromatic experience

      

Unlocking the Flavors of Jamaican Cuisine

Jamaican cuisine is renowned for its bold and vibrant flavors, which are beautifully showcased in this stew. The combination of curry powder and allspice infuses the dish with aromatic notes that transport you directly to Jamaica. Make sure to use a quality curry powder, as the spices can vary greatly. This attention to detail will elevate your stew, allowing the spices to bloom and develop their full potential as they cook.

The balance between the heat of the spices and the creaminess of the coconut milk is key to achieving a harmonious flavor profile. As you simmer the ingredients, keep an eye on the consistency of the stew. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon without being overly soupy. If it's too thick, you can easily adjust by adding a bit more vegetable broth or water.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right texture in this stew involves the sweet potatoes. When diced, they should be uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Aim for half-inch cubes, which will cook through in about 20 minutes. If you prefer a heartier texture, you can adjust the cooking time slightly by checking them after 15 minutes for tenderness. They should be fork-tender but not falling apart.

The chickpeas add a crucial element of protein and texture, making the stew both filling and satisfying. If you're short on time, canned chickpeas are a great time-saver; just rinse them before adding. However, if you're inclined to soak and cook dried chickpeas, be sure to factor in the additional cooking time, as they can take up to 1.5 hours to become tender.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium sweet potato, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Juice of 1 lime

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for a seamless cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the onion is translucent.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Stir in the sweet potato and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Sprinkle in the curry powder and allspice, stirring to coat the vegetables.

Pour in Coconut Milk and Broth

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Add Chickpeas

Once simmering, add the chickpeas. Stir well and let the stew cook for about 20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Season and Serve

Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. Finish with lime juice and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a teaspoon of chili flakes or serve the stew with a side of spicy Jamaican patties.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. You can make it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just reheat over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

For longer storage, this stew freezes well too. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if necessary, to loosen it up.

Serving Suggestions

This stew is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a traditional Jamaican flair, accompany it with rice and peas, which complements the flavors of the stew wonderfully. Alternatively, serve it over quinoa or alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter option. The acidity of lime juice also brightens the dish, so consider offering extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

I also love to drizzle a bit of hot sauce over my serving for an added kick, or sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch. Feel free to customize your garnishes with fresh herbs like parsley or scallions for a pop of color and flavor. Each variation brings its own unique twist to this delicious dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs excellently with rice, quinoa, or even crusty bread to soak up the flavors.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand. Spinach or kale would be great additions!