Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew

Name: Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon coconut oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can coconut milk; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global World Food Inspiration

I absolutely love whipping up this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew when I want a comforting and hearty meal. The creamy coconut milk pairs beautifully with the spices and protein-packed chickpeas, creating a satisfying dish that warms the soul. This recipe is not only simple to make, but it’s also a great way to incorporate more plant-based ingredients into my diet. Plus, the tantalizing aroma that fills the kitchen while it simmers makes it hard to resist indulging before it's even on the table.

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:50:34.866Z

Creating this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew was an exploration of flavors and textures that I truly enjoyed. I combined chickpeas with aromatic spices, and the result was a warm, comforting dish that felt both nourishing and indulgent. Cooking it slowly allows those rich flavors to really meld together, making every bite a testament to the power of simple ingredients.

One tip I learned along the way is to use fresh ginger and garlic as they elevate the stew with their vibrant notes. I also like to let it simmer a bit longer than the recipe suggests because the flavors deepen beautifully, resulting in a truly delightful meal that celebrates Jamaican cuisine.

        What You'll Love About This Recipe
        Creamy coconut milk that brings a rich and velvety texture
Nutty chickpeas for hearty protein that fills you up
A blend of spices that transports your taste buds to Jamaica

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star of this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew, lending both creaminess and depth to the dish. It not only enhances the texture, making it velvety and rich, but also complements the spices beautifully. When selecting coconut milk, opt for a full-fat version for the ultimate creaminess, or substitute with light coconut milk if you’re looking to reduce calories without sacrificing too much flavor. Just be mindful that this may slightly alter the stew’s consistency.

As the stew simmers, the coconut milk interacts with the spices, creating a harmonious, aromatic blend. Stirring occasionally ensures that the milk doesn’t separate and forms a cohesive sauce that clings to the chickpeas. If you find your stew is too thick, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Choosing and Preparing Spices

For authentic flavor, using fresh spices is crucial in this stew. While curry powder is a staple, try experimenting with different blends to discover unique flavor profiles. Jamaican curry powder typically contains turmeric, coriander, and cumin, which add warmth and an earthy undertone. Freshly ground spices can elevate the overall taste, so consider purchasing whole spices and grinding them just before cooking.

Be cautious with allspice; its pungent flavor can dominate the dish if overused. Start with the recommended amount, and adjust according to your personal taste preferences. A dash of cayenne can also add a delightful kick but should be added gradually, allowing the heat to build before serving your stew.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If desired, you can freeze the stew for up to three months. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to restore its creamy consistency, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

If you want to customize your meals throughout the week, consider pairing the stew with different sides each time you serve it. It pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or traditional Jamaican festival dumplings. You can also stir in greens like spinach or kale just before serving to switch up the nutrient profile without much effort.

Ingredients

For the Stew

1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can coconut milk
1 can diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Directions

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Bell Pepper and Chickpeas

Stir in the diced bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes. Then, add the chickpeas, coconut milk, diced tomatoes, curry powder, and allspice.

Simmer the Stew

Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and enjoy over rice or with your favorite bread.

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving to brighten the flavors. You can also customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand—zucchini or spinach would work beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew is as versatile as it is delicious. It's delightful served over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, which absorbs the rich flavors of the stew. You can also serve it with crusty bread, ideal for mopping up the gravy. For a heartier meal, consider adding roasted vegetables on the side or incorporating more plant-based proteins, like tofu or tempeh, directly into the stew.

If you're hosting a gathering or looking for a festive twist, you can serve this stew as part of a larger Caribbean-inspired feast. Pair it with rice and peas, plantain chips, and a refreshing mango salsa to create a vibrant and flavorful meal. This way, you will impress your guests with a diverse spread while keeping the cooking process straightforward.

Making It Your Own

This stew's base recipe is quite adaptable, allowing you to make it your own. Feel free to substitute chickpeas with lentils or black beans, adjusting cooking times accordingly. For a burst of color, add diced sweet potatoes or carrots along with the bell pepper. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also bring additional nutrition to the dish, balancing the creaminess of the coconut milk.

If you want to lighten the dish, consider using vegetable broth in place of coconut milk or adding more vegetables to bulk up the stew without increasing calories. A squeeze of lime juice just before serving adds brightness and cuts through the richness beautifully, making every bite refreshing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and perfect for anyone following a vegan diet.

→ Can I substitute any ingredients?

Yes, feel free to swap out chickpeas for lentils or add different vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes based on your preferences.

→ How spicy is this stew?

The spice level is mild, but you can increase it by adding chili powder or fresh chilies if you prefer more heat.