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 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can coconut milk; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love how vibrant and comforting this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew is! Every time I make it, the delightful combination of coconut milk and spices fills my kitchen with irresistible aromas. It's an easy dish that brings a taste of the tropics to our dining table, perfect for any day of the week. The chickpeas provide a hearty texture while absorbing all the flavors beautifully. Trust me, this stew is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl that I can’t get enough of!

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:25:23.459Z

Making this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew is a delightful experience every single time. I love how the creamy coconut milk melds with the spices to create a rich sauce that coats the chickpeas perfectly. Each bite is bursting with flavor and takes me back to warm, sunny days. A tip I’ve learned is to let it simmer for a while; the longer it cooks, the better the flavors develop!

One of my favorite moments is when I see my friends and family dig in. Their smiles say it all! I like to serve this stew over fluffy rice or with some warm naan for dipping. It's versatile, satisfying, and makes leftovers even more delightful the next day!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor paired with hearty chickpeas
A perfect balance of spices that warms the soul
Easily customizable for heat level and veggies

      

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Achieving the perfect texture in this stew starts with sautéing the onions, garlic, and ginger until they're translucent and fragrant. This step should take about 5 minutes over medium heat. If the mixture begins to stick to the pot, don’t hesitate to add a splash of vegetable broth or oil to deglaze. This will help develop deeper flavors and avoid burnt bits for a smoother stew.

Once you add the spices and chickpeas, ensure to stir well to toast them. Toasting the spices for about 2 minutes elevates their flavors, infusing the entire dish with warmth. You'll know they're ready when you can distinctly smell the spices and see a slight sheen on the chickpeas. This technique not only enriches the flavor but also enhances the overall aroma, making your kitchen feel inviting.

Ingredient Insights

Coconut milk is the star of this stew, providing richness and a hint of sweetness. For a lighter option, you can choose light coconut milk, but be aware that it may alter the creaminess slightly. Additionally, if you enjoy a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce during the simmering stage for a spicy kick that complements the coconut's sweetness.

The chickpeas play a crucial role in this stew, contributing protein and a hearty texture. If you're looking for a substitution, white beans or lentils can be used, but keep in mind that they will alter the flavor profile. Cook lentils separately and add them towards the end to maintain their texture, while beans can be added just like the chickpeas.

Ingredients

For the Stew

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can coconut milk
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can diced tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

How to Make the Stew

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Add Spices and Chickpeas

Stir in the curry powder, cumin, and add the chickpeas. Cook for another 2 minutes to toast the spices.

Incorporate Liquids

Pour in the coconut milk, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Simmer and Season

Allow the stew to simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Spoon the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy over rice or with naan for a fulfilling meal!

Enjoy your hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, let the stew sit for a few hours before serving. It’s even tastier the next day! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or spinach, for additional nutrition.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew keeps well, making it an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire stew, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through; this should take about 10 minutes.

If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. The stew can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove. However, be cautious about adding a little extra liquid when reheating, as the stew may thicken during storage.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly satisfying meal, serve this stew over a bed of fluffy rice, which helps soak up the sauces. Alternatively, you can pair it with warm naan bread or crusty artisan bread to create a comforting dipping experience. I love to squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice over each serving, enhancing the tropical flavors beautifully.

If you're looking to increase the vegetable content, consider adding spinach or kale to the stew during the last few minutes of cooking. These greens will wilt down, adding not only nutrition but also vibrant color to the dish. You could also serve it alongside a simple salad for freshness and crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Absolutely! The recipe is fully plant-based.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well for up to three months.