Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew

Name: Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced; 1 tsp allspice; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Favorites

I absolutely love creating warm, hearty stews that are both nutritious and satisfying. This Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew has become one of my go-to dishes for a comforting meal. It's packed with vibrant flavors from spices and fresh vegetables, making it a complete delight. I often enjoy it on chilly evenings or when I'm seeking a bit of comfort food that's also plant-based. The combination of sweet potatoes and chickpeas really elevates the dish, making it a family favorite.

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:45:35.249Z

When I first stumbled upon this Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew, the combination of flavors intrigued me, and I knew I had to try it. I experimented with spices like allspice and thyme, which really bring a unique flavor profile. After some adjustments, I found the right balance, and I can't get enough of it!

One of my favorite tips is to let the stew simmer for a bit longer than you think; this really allows the sweet potatoes to soften and the spices to meld together beautifully. The result is a comforting, hearty dish that warms from the inside out, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The vibrant flavors of Jamaica shine through every bite
Nutritious and filling, perfect for any meal
Easy to make, even for novice cooks

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew plays a crucial role in delivering the dish’s beloved flavor profile. Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness and a creamy texture when cooked, while chickpeas not only contribute protein but also add a nice firm texture that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the sweet potatoes. The coconut milk enriches the stew, creating a creamy base that harmonizes with the spices and enhances the overall taste.

For best results, choose firm sweet potatoes that feel heavy for their size; this ensures they hold their shape during cooking. When selecting coconut milk, look for full-fat varieties to achieve the richest flavor. The spices - allspice and thyme - are traditional in Jamaican cooking and add depth; fresh thyme will provide a more vibrant flavor, but dried is perfectly fine if fresh is unavailable.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Sautéing the aromatics is a vital first step that sets the foundation for the stew's flavor. Make sure to cook the onion until translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This not only softens the onion but also releases its natural sweetness, enhancing the stew's overall taste. Monitor the heat during this step; if the garlic starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat to prevent bitterness.

Simmering the stew after adding all the ingredients is essential for enriching flavors. Bringing it to a boil initially helps to meld all the spices instantly, but don’t rush the simmering stage. A gentle simmer is best; aim for small bubbles breaking the surface, and allow the stew to cook for at least 25 minutes. This allows the sweet potatoes to become fork-tender, soaking up the coconut milk’s creaminess and the spices’ aromatic qualities.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew:

Stew Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
1 tsp allspice
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and nutrition.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Add the Sweet Potatoes

Add the diced sweet potatoes to the pot and stir for another 2 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Add the chickpeas, allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, serve the stew hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious stew with rice or bread for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a chopped Scotch bonnet pepper while cooking. You can adjust the thickness of the stew by adding more or less broth as you prefer.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew can be prepared in advance and stored for an easy meal throughout the week. Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container; it can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space in the container as the stew may expand while freezing.

When reheating, I recommend thawing the stew overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water for the desired consistency, as the stew tends to thicken after sitting.

Serving Suggestions

This stew is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa. This not only adds texture but also increases the nutritional benefits, making it even more filling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, enjoy it with a simple side salad to balance the richness of the stew.

I love to garnish the stew with fresh chopped cilantro, which brightens the flavors. A squeeze of lime or lemon juice just before serving can elevate the taste, enhancing the stew's natural sweetness with a fresh burst of acidity. For an added kick, consider serving it alongside some spicy pickled vegetables, a nod to traditional Jamaican flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, the stew can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Is this stew suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It keeps well and can be portioned for easy meals throughout the week.

→ Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Yes, frozen sweet potatoes work well in this recipe. Just increase the cooking time slightly.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a complete meal.