Jamaican Sweet Potato Coconut Curry

Name: Jamaican Sweet Potato Coconut Curry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup spinach; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Inspired World Food Collection

I absolutely love making Jamaican Sweet Potato Coconut Curry because it brings a delightful balance of flavors and a vibrant color to my table. The creamy coconut milk, combined with tender sweet potatoes and aromatic spices, creates a dish that feels both comforting and exotic. Each time I prepare this curry, the sweet and savory notes meld together perfectly, making it a family favorite. Plus, using fresh ingredients makes all the difference; I always try to source organic veggies whenever possible for the best taste.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:57:35.874Z

When I first discovered traditional Jamaican flavors, I couldn't resist experimenting with them in my kitchen. This Sweet Potato Coconut Curry was born from my love for both sweetness and richness in meals. The combination of spices like curry powder and ginger brings an aromatic warmth, while the coconut milk provides the creaminess that binds it all together.

I often serve this curry over jasmine rice to soak up all the delicious sauce. A tip I learned is to roast the sweet potatoes beforehand for an enhanced flavor profile, making this dish truly unforgettable. It's a perfect meal for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut milk with hearty sweet potatoes for ultimate comfort
Rich blend of spices that dance on your palate
A colorful, vibrant dish that impresses any guest

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Jamaican Sweet Potato Coconut Curry is undoubtedly the sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness complements the rich and creamy coconut milk, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Opt for large, firm sweet potatoes and ensure they are uniformly cubed to promote even cooking. Should you need an alternative, butternut squash can offer a similar sweetness while adding a different texture to the dish.

Coconut milk not only provides a creamy base but also a subtle flavor that harmonizes with the spices used. Choosing full-fat coconut milk will give you a richer texture, while light coconut milk can be used if you're looking to reduce calories. If you're lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy, this plant-based milk is a fantastic creamy alternative, making your curry velvety without any animal products.

Techniques for Perfect Curry

When sautéing the onions, garlic, and ginger, the goal is to sweat them until they become aromatic and the onions turn translucent—typically about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds the foundational flavors of the curry. Keep the heat at medium; too high can lead to burning, which will impart an unpleasant bitterness to your dish.

After adding the sweet potatoes and liquids, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. A simmering pot should have small bubbles gently rising to the surface, often taking about 20 minutes to cook the sweet potatoes until fork-tender. If you wish for a thicker curry, allow it to simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.

Serving and Storing Your Curry

When it's time to enjoy your curry, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, which balances the creamy sauce beautifully. For added texture and nutrition, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds on top. This combination not only provides contrast in every bite but also makes for a visually stunning dish that is sure to impress.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. You can also freeze this curry for up to three months; simply ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful curry:

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup spinach
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure you have all the ingredients ready for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Jamaican Sweet Potato Coconut Curry:

Sauté Aromatics

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

Add Spices

Stir in curry powder and cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Cook Sweet Potatoes

Add the cubed sweet potatoes, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.

Finish with Spinach

Add spinach and stir until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot over rice and enjoy!

Enjoy your homemade curry, bursting with flavors!

Pro Tips

Try adding a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Spice Variations

While curry powder gives this dish its characteristic warmth and earthiness, feel free to experiment with other spices! Adding a pinch of turmeric can enhance the curry's color and provide additional health benefits. For a spicy kick, incorporate cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños when you sauté the onions. This way, you can tailor the heat level to your preference, ensuring it's just right for your palate.

If you want to highlight a more authentic Jamaican flavor, consider adding allspice or nutmeg. These spices blend well with coconut milk and can elevate the dish's aromatic quality, evoking the essence of Caribbean cuisine.

Nut and Seed Additions

Incorporating nuts or seeds into your curry not only adds a delightful crunch but also boosts the nutritional value. For instance, adding cashews during the last stages of cooking allows them to soften slightly while retaining some texture. Alternatively, topping the curry with toasted pumpkin seeds can offer a nice contrast and a pop of color.

I often recommend raw or roasted peanuts, as their salty flavor can beautifully complement the sweetness of the sweet potatoes and the richness of the coconut milk. Grinding a handful and sprinkling them over the finished dish creates a delicious garnish that’s both visually appealing and flavorful.

Make It Your Own

The versatility of this curry allows for endless personalization. If you’re looking to add more protein, chickpeas or lentils can easily be incorporated. If you add them at the same time as the sweet potatoes, pay attention to the cooking time to ensure everything is perfectly tender.

For a fresh twist, serve the curry with a side of mango chutney or a cucumber salad, providing a refreshing counterpoint to its warmth. This is particularly effective during warmer months, making your meal light yet satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables in this curry?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or peas to customize your curry.

→ Can I make this curry in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors develop even more over time. Just reheat gently before serving.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes! All the ingredients used are plant-based, making it a great vegan option.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

You can increase or decrease the amount of curry powder or add a chopped chili for extra heat.