Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew

Name: Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can coconut milk; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love this Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew! It brings a warm, comforting vibe that feels like a hug on a chilly day. The combination of sweet, hearty sweet potatoes and protein-rich chickpeas creates a satisfying meal full of flavor. With fragrant spices like ginger and garlic, each spoonful is a delightful journey to the Caribbean. Whether you're looking for a healthy dinner or a hearty lunch, this stew is the perfect choice. It's easy to make, and I promise you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:29:34.454Z

When I first tried making this Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew, I wanted to capture the warmth of island flavors. After experimenting with various spices, I found that the combination of thyme, allspice, and coconut milk created a remarkably rich and vibrant base. Using vegetable broth instead of water added an incredible depth of flavor that I absolutely loved.

One tip I discovered is to roast the sweet potatoes slightly before adding them to the stew. It enhances their natural sweetness and adds a delightful texture. Don't forget to serve this stew with a side of warm bread or over rice for a complete meal!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors
Hearty and satisfying, ideal for meal prep
Nutritious ingredients packed into one bowl

      

Ingredient Insights

The sweet potatoes serve as the backbone of this stew, providing a creamy texture and natural sweetness that balances perfectly with the spices. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm ones with smooth skins, avoiding any that have soft spots or blemishes. The size of the cubes also matters; aim for about 1-inch pieces to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the broth's flavors beautifully.

Chickpeas bring not only protein but also a delightful nuttiness to the dish. Using canned chickpeas saves time, but if you prefer, dried chickpeas can be used instead. Just remember to soak them overnight and increase cooking time appropriately. Rinsing canned chickpeas helps reduce sodium and removes any canning residue, making them healthier and more palatable.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion, garlic, and ginger in olive oil before adding other ingredients is crucial for unleashing their full flavor potential. Cook them until the onion is translucent and starts to soften, about 3-5 minutes. If you notice signs of browning, lower the heat slightly to prevent burning, which can introduce bitterness into your stew.

When simmering your stew, the key is patience. A gentle simmer—look for small bubbles forming on the surface—allows all the flavors to meld and develop. If it starts to boil too vigorously, reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer. This typically takes about 20 minutes, but occasionally check the sweet potatoes for tenderness; they should be soft enough to easily pierce with a fork but not mushy.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can coconut milk
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Stir in the cubed sweet potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk. Add the chickpeas, thyme, allspice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.

Simmer the Stew

Let the stew simmer for 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the flavors are well blended.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, ideally over rice or with crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For added heat, consider adding a diced chili pepper or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper during cooking. Fresh cilantro or parsley makes a great garnish.

Serving Suggestions

This stew is versatile and pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy rice or quinoa, which helps soak up the rich broth. You can also try topping it with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an herbaceous touch. A squeeze of lime adds an extra zing that complements the dish’s sweetness perfectly, enhancing the Caribbean flavors.

For a heartier meal, serve the stew with crusty bread or warm corn tortillas. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding avocado slices on top or a dollop of coconut yogurt for an exciting flavor contrast. This stew holds up well in the refrigerator, making it a superb option for meal prep throughout the week.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this Jamaican Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew is that it can be made ahead of time and stores well. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container; it can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, do so gently over medium heat to maintain the texture and flavor—adding a splash of vegetable broth can help if it thickens too much.

If you're considering making a larger batch, this stew freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer bags or containers, making sure to leave a little space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before heating for optimal results, ensuring the flavors remain vibrant and the stew retains its comforting appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other beans instead of chickpeas?

Absolutely! You can substitute black beans or kidney beans if you'd like a different texture.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan and packed with plant-based ingredients.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to enhance the nutrition and variety.