Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew

Name: Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons curry powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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I absolutely love making Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew. This dish is not only incredibly flavorful but also packed with nutrition. The combination of sweet potatoes and chickpeas creates a delightful texture and depth to each bite. When I first made this stew, I was amazed at how the spices melded together, transporting me to the vibrant streets of Jamaica. It's become a go-to recipe for cozy dinners and impressing friends at gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Created by

Arabelle Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:01:34.602Z

When I first discovered Jamaican cuisine, the bold flavors and warmth struck a chord with me. I knew I wanted to recreate that in my own kitchen, and that's how this Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew came to be. The sweet potatoes add a comforting sweetness that perfectly balances the spices. One trick I learned is to let the stew sit for a few hours after cooking; it allows the flavors to meld even more, resulting in a dish that tastes even better the next day!

I also love serving this stew with a side of coconut rice, which enhances the tropical flavor and provides a creamy contrast. The simplicity of chopping fresh vegetables and letting everything simmer is therapeutic for me, and it’s an easy recipe to adapt with whatever vegetables I have on hand. Plus, it’s vegan and absolutely delicious!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavors that warm the soul
Packed with nutrients from sweet potatoes and chickpeas
A unique twist on traditional comfort food

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The primary ingredients in Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew bring not only nutrition but also vibrant color and flavor to the dish. Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness balanced by the savory chickpeas, which add both protein and fiber. Together, they create a filling base. Choosing sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes can enhance the overall texture of the stew as they hold their shape well during cooking.

The coconut milk adds a rich creaminess and a subtle sweetness, elevating the dish to a new level of comfort food. Opting for full-fat coconut milk will yield a creamier texture, but if you're looking to lighten it up, light coconut milk can work as well. Just bear in mind that it may alter the overall creaminess and flavor profile slightly.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Sautéing the onion, bell pepper, and garlic at the beginning is a crucial step that lays the foundation for the stew's flavor. Be sure to cook them until they're just soft and the onion is translucent; this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. If they begin to brown, reduce the heat slightly to prevent a burnt flavor in the dish. This technique allows the natural sugars to caramelize, adding depth to the stew.

When it comes to simmering the stew, patience is key. After bringing it to a boil, make sure to lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. This slow cooking helps meld the spices and allows the sweet potatoes to become tender and creamy without falling apart. Keep an eye on it; if the liquid reduces too much, you can add another splash of vegetable broth to keep it at the right consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up a delightful stew:

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to prep everything before cooking for a smooth process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the curry powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the onions and bell pepper in the spices, cooking for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the diced sweet potatoes and chickpeas to the pot, followed by the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the sweet potatoes are submerged in the liquid.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Season and Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty stew!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice just before serving. You can also experiment with different vegetables like kale or spinach for added greens.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew stores remarkably well, making it a great dish for meal prep. You can keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Let it cool completely before transferring it to ensure it stays fresh longer and prevent condensation buildup inside the container.

When reheating, you can warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave. If it's too thick after sitting, simply add a bit of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning again before serving, as flavors can develop further during storage.

Flavor Variations

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding different vegetables such as spinach, kale, or carrots. These can be added in the last 10 minutes of cooking to maintain their nutrients and color. You can also experiment with spices; for a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can create an exciting contrast to the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

Feel free to customize the texture by using different types of beans instead of chickpeas, such as black beans or kidney beans, which could alter the dish’s flavor profile even further. Always be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the beans you choose to ensure everything is cooked to perfection.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your serving experience, consider pairing this stew with a side of fluffy rice or quinoa. Not only does this complement the dish, but it also helps to soak up the delicious flavors of the stew. A sprinkle of lime juice right before serving can also add a lovely brightness to the dish, balancing the richness of the coconut milk.

For a more extravagant presentation, serve the stew in individual bowls topped with a dollop of yogurt or a swirl of light sour cream. This contrast in temperature and texture will surprise your guests and enhance the overall experience of enjoying this Jamaican-inspired dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of beans instead of chickpeas?

Yes, you can substitute black beans or kidney beans if you prefer.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover stew can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before consuming.

→ Is this stew suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! The stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

→ Can I make this stew spicier?

Definitely! You can add diced chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give it an extra kick.