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 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated; 1 can coconut milk; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Planning

I absolutely love making Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew! The combination of sweet potatoes and chickpeas creates a hearty and filling dish that warms the soul. The spices give it an incredible depth of flavor, and I find that it’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner. Plus, it's versatile enough to serve over rice or with some crusty bread. Each bite is a celebration of vibrant ingredients that not only delight the taste buds but also nourish the body.

Created by

Francesca Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:33:35.404Z

When I first tried Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew, I was amazed by its comforting aroma and rich flavors. I experimented a lot with the seasoning, and I found that using fresh thyme and a hint of ginger elevates the dish beautifully. It’s incredible how a few herbs can transform the sweet potatoes and chickpeas into something truly special.

Cooking the stew slowly allows all the components to meld together perfectly, while also preserving the texture of the sweet potatoes. I recommend letting it simmer for at least 25 minutes for the flavors to deepen. Serve it with some lime wedges for a zesty finish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
Nutritious and filling, perfect for any meal
Easily adaptable to accommodate different diets

Understanding Ingredients

The sweet potatoes in this stew not only add natural sweetness but also provide a creamy texture as they cook down. When selecting sweet potatoes, opt for medium-sized ones that are firm and free from blemishes. They should be vibrant in color as this indicates freshness and flavor. Similarly, chickpeas not only introduce protein and fiber but also contribute a slight nuttiness that balances the dish beautifully. If you prefer fresh ingredients, you can cook dried chickpeas; just remember to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Coconut milk is another key ingredient that enriches the stew with a luscious creaminess. When choosing coconut milk, look for full-fat varieties for a more substantial texture and flavor. Low-fat options may result in a thinner stew. Additionally, fresh ginger and garlic are essential for imparting depth; I always opt for the freshest specimens available. A tip I’ve learned is to grate your ginger rather than mincing; this maximizes its flavor release into the dish.

Cooking Techniques for Success

The way you sauté the aromatics sets the foundation for the stew's flavors. Keep the heat medium, allowing the onion to become translucent without browning, which usually takes about five minutes. If you notice the garlic or ginger starting to brown, lower the heat; burnt aromatics can introduce unwanted bitterness to the dish. After adding the sweet potatoes and chickpeas, ensure they are thoroughly mixed with the spices for uniform flavor distribution before adding the liquids.

Simmering is critical to achieving the right consistency. After you bring the stew to a gentle simmer, keep an eye on the texture; you want the sweet potatoes to be tender but not falling apart. Testing with a fork after around 20 minutes can help gauge their doneness. For those seeking a thicker stew, you could mash a few pieces of sweet potato against the side of the pot and stir them back in for a creamy consistency.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
1 can coconut milk
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Veggies

Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes. Then, add the chickpeas, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, and thyme. Mix well.

Simmer the Stew

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat, and cover. Let it cook for about 25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.

Season and Serve

Once cooked, season with salt, pepper, and lime juice. Remove from heat, and let it sit for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce when cooking. This stew also freezes well, so make a big batch and enjoy it later!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This stew is perfect for meal prep! Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container in the refrigerator where it will keep for up to five days. If you wish to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Pour the cooled stew into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and it can last up to three months. When you are ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

If you find the stew thickens after refrigeration, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency. I recommend adding the fresh cilantro just before serving, as this ensures its vibrant flavor remains bright and fresh.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Jamaican Sweet Potato Chickpea Stew is a delightful experience. I love pairing it with warm, crusty bread, which is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce. Alternatively, serve it over fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal. To elevate the dish, consider a sprinkle of feta or avocado on top for a hint of creaminess and a contrasting texture.

For a fun twist, you can turn this stew into a taco filling! Simply shred some corn tortillas and fill them with the stew, adding a drizzle of lime crema or your favorite hot sauce. This offers a unique and flavorful way to devour the stew while still enjoying all the earthy and sweet notes that it delivers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or spinach would work great in this stew.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Yes, this recipe is 100% vegan and packed with plant-based protein.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes! It's a fantastic dish to meal prep. Just let it cool before storing.