Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew

Name: Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (400ml) coconut milk; 2 cans (400g each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Cultural Kitchen

I absolutely love this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew! It's a vibrant dish that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. The combination of creamy coconut milk, tender chickpeas, and aromatic spices creates a satisfying and hearty meal. I often make this stew when I want something nutritious yet full of flavor, and it never disappoints. Pair it with rice or enjoy it by itself; either way, it's sure to delight your taste buds and fill your kitchen with tantalizing aromas.

Created by

Elara Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:33:34.644Z

When I first tried Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew, I was amazed by how each ingredient worked together to create a symphony of flavors. The use of coconut milk adds a rich creaminess, while the chickpeas provide a hearty texture. To ensure the depth of flavor, I sauté the spices before adding any liquids, which helps release their essential oils and enhances the overall taste.

A tip I picked up is to let the stew simmer for a bit longer, allowing the spices to truly infuse into the dish. This not only elevates the flavor but also thickens the stew perfectly for an irresistible consistency. I guarantee that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your rotation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy coconut milk that enhances the dish's richness
Hearty chickpeas packed with protein and fiber
A blend of spices that transports your taste buds to the Caribbean

Ingredient Insights

The star of this stew is undoubtedly the coconut milk, which lends a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that balances the spices perfectly. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for a richer flavor; however, if you prefer a lighter version, reduced-fat coconut milk will also work. This ingredient not only adds richness but also contributes healthy fats that help with nutrient absorption in the meal.

Chickpeas are another key player in this dish. They provide a hearty base, eliminating the need for meat and ensuring a protein-packed, plant-based meal. Canned chickpeas are convenient, but if you prefer using dried ones, make sure to soak them overnight and cook them thoroughly. The texture should be tender but not mushy, giving the stew a chunky bite.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the aromatics is essential to build flavor early in the cooking process. Make sure the onions are translucent and slightly caramelized before adding the garlic and ginger; this will bring out their full aromas. Consider using a heavy-bottomed pot to distribute heat evenly, preventing burning while achieving that perfect golden color.

When it comes time to simmer the stew, keep the heat low and check occasionally to ensure it doesn’t boil vigorously. A gentle simmer allows the ingredients to meld harmoniously without losing the integrity of the chickpeas or the creaminess of the coconut milk. You’ll know it’s ready when the stew thickens slightly and the flavors are well-combined.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to bring this flavorful stew to life:

Main Ingredients

1 can (400ml) coconut milk
2 cans (400g each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Once you have everything ready, you're set to make this delicious stew!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a perfect Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are soft. Then, stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

Add the Spices

Next, add the curry powder and allspice, stirring for about 1 minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.

Combine Coconut Milk and Chickpeas

Pour in the coconut milk and add the chickpeas. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and let cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serve and Garnish

Once the stew is finished, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and enjoy!

This stew is excellent served over rice or with warm bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a diced Scotch bonnet pepper while the stew simmers for authentic Jamaican heat!

Storage and Reheating

This stew is excellent for meal prep, as its flavors deepen over time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you find the stew has thickened too much when reheating, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to regain the desired consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. It will keep well for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop, stirring often to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

While this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew is delicious on its own, serving it alongside cooked rice or quinoa can transform it into a more filling meal. The grains will soak up the flavorful coconut broth and complement the stew's creaminess beautifully. For an extra kick, consider offering a side of spicy pickled vegetables to brighten the dish.

You can also customize your stew to suit your taste. Adding leafy greens like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking enhances both nutrition and flavor without much effort. If you enjoy a bit of heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to spice things up!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses chickpeas and coconut milk for creaminess.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently on the stovetop.

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

If you don’t have chickpeas, you can try using lentils or navy beans as an alternative.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.