Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew

Name: Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece of ginger, grated; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup vegetable broth; 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Recipes

When I first discovered Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew, it quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of hearty chickpeas, coconut milk, and vibrant spices creates a warm, comforting dish that is both healthy and satisfying. I love how easy it is to prepare, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights. With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal that transports you straight to the Caribbean. Trust me, this stew is a delicious way to enjoy plant-based goodness.

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:29:34.885Z

My journey with Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew started during a winter when I wanted something warm and nutritious. The first batch I made was a revelation! The rich coconut milk blended beautifully with spices like ginger and garlic, transforming simple ingredients into a fragrant dish that filled my home with exotic aromas. I encourage you to experiment with spices to match your taste.

What really sells this stew, though, is the texture. The chickpeas add a creamy bite while the coconut gives it a velvety richness that’s hard to resist. I often top it with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor, which elevates this dish to a celebratory level. Try it, and you’ll see why it has become a staple for me!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy coconut milk enhances the rich, spicy flavors
Hearty chickpeas make it filling and nutritious
Perfect for a cozy dinner that's ready in under an hour

Technique for Perfect Texture

When preparing the Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew, achieving the right texture is key. Sautéing the onion, garlic, and ginger until the onion is translucent not only enhances the flavor but also sets the foundation for a smooth, creamy stew. Keep the heat at medium to avoid browning the aromatics, as this can lead to a bitter taste. After the vegetables are added, stirring frequently ensures that the spices are well-toasted and evenly distributed.

Another crucial step is the addition of greens. Adding chopped kale or spinach at the end of cooking helps retain their vibrant color and nutrients. Only let them cook for about 5 minutes until wilted; if you overcook them, they can become mushy and lose their bright flavor. It's also an opportunity to experiment with other leafy greens like swiss chard or bok choy for a slightly different taste.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Coconut milk adds a rich creaminess to this stew, helping to balance the spices. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use light coconut milk or even substitute half with unsweetened almond milk for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that reducing the fat content may alter the overall creaminess, so feel free to adjust spices accordingly to maintain flavor intensity.

Chickpeas are not only protein powerhouses but also contribute to the stew's thickness. If you're in a hurry, canned chickpeas save time, but if you prefer dried chickpeas, remember to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the stew. Also, consider using other beans like black beans or lentils if you're looking for more variation in texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup vegetable broth
2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Add the diced bell pepper, turmeric, cumin, and paprika to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine and toast the spices.

Combine Coconut Milk and Chickpeas

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring well. Add the chickpeas and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Finish with Greens

Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy it warm with rice or crusty bread.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes for extra nutrition. This stew also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors only improve as it sits, making it ideal for meal prep. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if it has thickened too much during storage.

If you wish to freeze the stew for longer storage, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. This stew freezes well for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the stove. Be sure to stir well and adjust seasoning as needed, since freezing can sometimes dull the spices.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of great ways to elevate the meal. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful broth. For an extra Caribbean twist, consider adding a side of fried plantains or cornbread, which complement the stew's richness beautifully.

To add a touch of freshness, serve the stew with lime wedges on the side; a squeeze of lime just before eating brightens up the dish wonderfully. For those who enjoy a hint of heat, consider adding some chopped scotch bonnet peppers or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick that contrasts delightfully with the creamy coconut base.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, just be sure to soak and cook them beforehand to ensure they're tender.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! It's entirely plant-based and packed with flavor.

→ How spicy is this stew?

This recipe has a mild spice level, but you can add chili powder or hot sauce for more heat.

→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use almond milk or vegetable broth, but the stew may miss the creamy richness.