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 chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can coconut milk; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: Rustic Cooking

I love making this Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew, especially when the weather turns chilly. The combination of tender sweet potatoes and hearty chickpeas creates a comforting meal that's packed with flavor. The spices—along with coconut milk—bring an authentic Caribbean flair to my kitchen. Each time I make it, I adjust the spice level to suit my taste, proving just how versatile this recipe can be. Plus, it's a breeze to whip up, making it my go-to choice for a fulfilling weeknight dinner.

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:29:34.761Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew at a local restaurant, I was blown away by how vibrant and comforting it was. I knew I had to recreate it at home, and after several attempts, I finally found the perfect balance of spices and creaminess. One specific tip I learned was to add the coconut milk towards the end to keep its freshness contrasting with the stew's warmth.

Cooking this dish has become a delightful ritual for me. The aroma of curry powder and ginger always fills the air, which makes my kitchen feel like a Caribbean paradise. I enjoy experimenting with different vegetables, but the core of sweet potatoes and chickpeas holds true to its roots while giving me the comfort I crave in a meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A vibrant mix of spices that awakens your senses
Rich and creamy texture that warms the soul
Nutritious ingredients that make it a wholesome meal

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of the stew, sweet potatoes, not only add natural sweetness but also contribute a rich source of vitamins A and C. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and free of blemishes. The size doesn’t matter too much, but ensuring they are similar in size will help them cook evenly. You can also experiment with different varieties, like purple or Japanese sweet potatoes, to add a colorful twist.

Chickpeas provide protein and fiber, making this stew a filling option. If you're in a pinch, canned chickpeas are a fantastic time-saver. However, if you prefer to use dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding to the stew. This can enhance the texture and flavor, giving you a heartier result in your final dish.

Perfecting the Stewing Process

Sautéing the onions and garlic until fragrant is crucial, as it builds a base of flavor for the stew. Make sure to keep an eye on them and stir occasionally, so they don’t burn. You want them to become translucent and just starting to caramelize, which should take about 3-5 minutes. If they start browning too quickly, reduce the heat to avoid bitterness.

Incorporating the coconut milk is where the stew gains its creamy richness. When adding coconut milk, consider using full-fat for a silkier texture, but light coconut milk can work if you're watching calories. Stir gently to avoid curdling and let it blend beautifully with the spices and vegetables, simmering until the mixture thickens slightly.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can coconut milk
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Spices

1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges

Mix well and cook until everything is tender.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes, and draining the chickpeas. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until fragrant.

Add Spices and Sweet Potatoes

Stir in the curry powder, ground ginger, and paprika. Then, add the diced sweet potatoes and mix well for 2 minutes.

Incorporate Coconut Milk and Chickpeas

Pour in the coconut milk and add the chickpeas. Season with salt and pepper and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious stew!

Pro Tips

For added heat, feel free to include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. As it sits, the flavors will meld beautifully, often making it taste even better the next day. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to three months. Divide it into portions for easy use later. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just remember that sweet potatoes retain water, so the texture may slightly change upon freezing and reheating, but the flavors will still be delightful.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy brown rice or quinoa. The grains will soak up the delicious sauce, creating a heartier meal. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or a dash of sriracha can also bring an unexpected twist — the heat complements the creaminess of the coconut milk.

Garnishing with fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, and lime wedges are essential for that zesty finish. Squeeze a little lime juice over the top just before eating to brighten the flavors even more. Pair this dish with crusty bread or a side salad for a vibrant, balanced dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will last for about 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.