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 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch piece of ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tbsp curry powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Inspiration

I love making Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew because it's such a comforting dish that warms the soul. This hearty stew brings together the natural sweetness of the potatoes and the earthy flavors of chickpeas, resulting in a delightful combination that's both nourishing and satisfying. I enjoy the vibrant spices that fill my kitchen with an inviting aroma as they develop into a thick and creamy stew. It's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a meal prep option for a busy week ahead.

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:47:35.334Z

When I first tried making Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it turned out. The process of sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger is key; it enhances the flavor profile right from the start. I learned that letting the spices bloom in the hot oil gave the stew a deeper flavor that I couldn't get enough of!

One of my favorite details about this recipe is how adaptable it is; you can add other vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition. I often play with the spice levels depending on who I'm serving, making it mild for kids and a bit spicier for the adults. Every time I make this stew, it feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory balance with tender sweet potatoes
Nutritious and filling, perfect for any meal
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of this stew, sweet potatoes, not only contribute natural sweetness but also serve as a rich source of vitamins A and C. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and free from blemishes. You can use orange-fleshed varieties for a sweeter flavor or even purple sweet potatoes for a twist in color and taste. Dicing them consistently helps ensure even cooking, so aim for roughly 1-inch cubes.

Chickpeas bring a significant protein punch to this dish, making it filling and hearty. Canned chickpeas save time, but if you prefer using dried ones, soak and cook them ahead to get the desired tenderness. The combination of chickpeas and coconut milk creates a creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the potatoes remarkably well. Remember to rinse the chickpeas thoroughly to remove excess sodium from the canning process.

Cooking Techniques

When sautéing the onions, garlic, and ginger, keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning. Medium heat should be ideal; you'll want the onions to turn translucent and slightly golden. This process builds the aromatic foundation of the stew. Stir frequently to ensure they cook evenly and do not stick to the pot, which could impart a bitter flavor if overdone.

For the spices, toasting them in the oil briefly before adding the sweet potatoes enhances their flavors significantly. You should notice a warm, fragrant aroma while stirring. If the mixture begins to stick, a splash of broth can help deglaze the pot and lift the flavorful bits. This little technique can elevate the dish, making it more complex and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch piece of ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tbsp curry powder
1 tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes into even cubes. Chop the onion, and mince the garlic and ginger to have them ready for cooking.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Spices and Sweet Potatoes

Sprinkle the curry powder and cumin into the pot, stirring well to combine. Add the diced sweet potatoes, stirring to coat them with the spices.

Combine with Coconut Milk and Broth

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Add Chickpeas and Season

Stir in the chickpeas and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the stew to cook for another 5 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your hearty and nutritious meal!

Pro Tips

For added heat, you can include diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the aromatics.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can make a big batch and refrigerate it for up to five days. The flavors actually meld and improve after a day or two, making it taste even better. When storing, make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. You can also freeze portions for up to three months; just be aware that the texture of sweet potatoes may change slightly after freezing.

To reheat, simply place it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or microwave it in portions. If it appears too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin it to the desired consistency before serving.

Variations and Customization

Feel free to get creative with your veggies! This stew is highly adaptable; consider adding in chopped carrots, spinach, or bell peppers for additional nutrients and texture. If you enjoy a spicier kick, try adding a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper during the spice stage. Just be cautious not to overpower the balance of flavors with too much heat.

For those looking for a protein boost beyond chickpeas, you can incorporate lentils or even cubed tofu. Both options will complement the stew well. If you're aiming for a more traditional Jamaican flair, adding thyme and scallions could enhance the dish further, contributing layers of flavor to this already vibrant stew.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, the stew can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is this stew vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegan and made with plant-based ingredients.

→ Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance the nutrition and flavor.

→ How can I thicken the stew further?

If you prefer a thicker texture, you can blend a portion of the stew and stir it back in, or simmer it longer to reduce the liquid.