Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew

Name: Jamaican Sweet Potato and 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 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Recipes

I absolutely adore making Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew because it brings a delightful warmth to any meal. The combination of sweet potatoes and chickpeas creates a rich, comforting dish that truly captures the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean. This stew is not only easy to prepare but also a perfect one-pot wonder that I can enjoy throughout the week. Each spoonful is packed with color, texture, and nutrition, making it a go-to recipe for both my family and myself.

Created by

Greer Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:45:35.468Z

When I first tried Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew, I marveled at how simple ingredients could create such a complex flavor profile. Each bite reveals a blend of spices that transport me straight to a Caribbean paradise. One important tip I learned is to let the stew simmer long enough for the sweet potatoes to become tender, allowing their natural sweetness to infuse the entire dish.

As I experimented with the recipe, I discovered that adding a splash of coconut milk at the end gives the stew a lovely creaminess that elevates the dish. This technique not only rounds out the flavors but also balances the heat from the spices, making it an absolute favorite in my household!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and hearty flavors packed into every spoonful
Nutritious ingredients that are easy to find
Perfect for meal prep or as a comforting weeknight dinner

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients in this Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew are sweet potatoes and chickpeas. Sweet potatoes not only add natural sweetness but also contribute a vibrant color and creamy texture to the dish. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for those that are firm and smooth, avoiding any with blemishes or soft spots. Chickpeas provide protein and fiber, making the stew hearty and satisfying. Canned chickpeas are a convenient time-saver, but if you prefer, you can use dried chickpeas; just remember to soak and cook them beforehand.

Using coconut milk gives the stew a rich, creamy consistency and a hint of tropical flavor, balancing out the spices beautifully. Full-fat coconut milk will yield a thicker stew, while light coconut milk may produce a slightly thinner texture. If dairy isn’t an issue, you could also experiment with adding a splash of heavy cream for extra richness. For a nut-free version, ensure your coconut milk is free of allergens, and opt for a plant-based milk that suits your dietary needs.

Technique Tips for Perfect Stew

Sautéing your onions, garlic, and bell pepper until they become translucent is crucial for developing a base full of flavor. This caramelization enhances the stew’s depth, so take your time and stir occasionally, ensuring nothing burns. If you're short on time, you can use pre-chopped vegetables, but fresh ingredients will always provide the best flavor. Aim for a medium heat during this step, as too high a temperature can scorch the veggies, leading to a bitter taste.

Once you add the liquids, be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. This process, known as deglazing, ensures you get every ounce of flavor into your stew. When bringing your stew to a boil, keep an eye on the heat—you want it bubbling gently to encourage even cooking without rapid evaporation of liquid. Once simmering, a low heat allows the sweet potatoes to become tender without turning mushy, typically in about 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious stew:

Vegetables and Legumes

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, sliced

Liquids and Seasonings

1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prep all your ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stew:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and bell pepper, and sauté until the onions are translucent.

Add Sweet Potatoes and Carrots

Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and sliced carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.

Combine Chickpeas and Spices

Add the chickpeas, curry powder, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Mix well to ensure everything is coated with the spices.

Pour in Liquids

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, give it a good stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Your Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew is ready to be devoured!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lime juice right before serving. It adds a refreshing brightness that complements the stew beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

This stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it instead. Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep well for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if needed to reincarnate its original consistency.

I recommend enjoying this stew with a side of rice or quinoa to soak up the flavors, but it also pairs beautifully with warm naan or crusty bread. If you find it’s thickened after storage, a little liquid during reheating will bring it back to life. This way, you'll have a delicious meal ready at a moment's notice, making weeknight dinners effortless.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize this stew to your taste preferences! You can add a kick of spice by incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper, giving it an exciting Caribbean flair. For additional vegetables, consider adding chopped spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking, which will wilt perfectly into the stew, boosting its nutrition without losing texture or flavor.

Another way to enhance the flavor is to finish the stew with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro or parsley just before serving. This brightens up the dish and adds a fresh aroma. If you'd like to make it more protein-rich, adding diced cooked chicken or shrimp in the last stages of cooking can make this stew even more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, you can freeze this stew in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

Serve this stew with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Yes, this Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew is entirely vegan and packed with plant-based goodness.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables such as spinach, kale, or zucchini.