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, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1-inch piece of ginger, grated; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Inspired Food

I absolutely love cooking up a pot of Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew! The combination of creamy coconut milk and tender chickpeas offers a whirlwind of flavors that excite my palate. The bright spices enhance the dish, making it a comfort food that feels light yet satisfying. Preparing this stewed delight fills my kitchen with a wonderful aroma, and I find joy in the simplicity of the ingredients. It's a gem of a recipe that I return to time and again, perfect for hearty weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests.

Created by

Yasmin Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:45:35.741Z

When I first came across the recipe for Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew, I was intrigued by its vibrant flavors and simplicity. After trying my hand at it, I fell in love with how the spices and coconut come together to create something truly comforting. I've learned that adding a splash of lime juice at the end brightens everything up, making each spoonful refreshing.

This stew has become a staple in my kitchen. I often serve it with rice or quinoa, and it's impressive how well it holds up in flavor even as leftovers. I love experimenting with different vegetables too!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut milk paired with hearty chickpeas
Rich flavor from aromatic spices like ginger and turmeric
Versatile dish that can be easily customized with your choice of veggies

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The creamy texture of coconut milk is a critical component in this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew, as it adds richness and balances the spices. When selecting coconut milk, look for full-fat options that provide a luscious mouthfeel, rather than light varieties, which can lead to a watery stew. This richness complements the starchy chickpeas, giving the dish a heartiness that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Fresh ingredients like ginger and garlic aren't just for flavor; they also impart health benefits. Ginger contributes a warm, spicy note that enhances the dish's depth, while garlic offers anti-inflammatory properties. Together, they create an aromatic base that elevates the stew, making each bite a delightful experience. For a stronger ginger flavor, feel free to increase the amount slightly, but avoid overpowering the balance of spices with excessive amounts.

Cooking Techniques for Success

When sautéing the aromatics, it's important to monitor the heat level—medium heat should be sufficient to soften the onion without browning it too quickly. If your onions start to caramelize, lower the heat, as this will impart a different flavor than intended. You're aiming for a soft, translucent onion to form a well-balanced flavor profile throughout the stew.

Once the chickpeas and coconut milk are added, letting it simmer for 20 minutes is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld together. During this time, you should notice the stew thickening slightly, creating a luscious, glossy finish. If it appears too thin, allow it to simmer a bit longer, checking frequently to avoid overcooking the chickpeas. This technique maximizes the dish's flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the Stew

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can coconut milk
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
1 bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, diced
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 tablespoon tomato paste
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add Vegetables and Spices

Stir in the bell pepper and carrot, cooking for another 5 minutes. Add the curry powder and tomato paste, mixing well to coat the vegetables.

Combine Coconut Milk and Chickpeas

Pour in the coconut milk and add the chickpeas. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Final Touches

Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, allow the stew to sit for 10 minutes before serving, as it enhances the spices. You can also add spinach or kale for more nutrients.

Customizing Your Stew

One of the beauties of this stew is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe by incorporating seasonal vegetables or your personal favorites. For instance, adding diced zucchini or spinach toward the end of cooking can enhance freshness without compromising cooking time. Alternatively, for a protein boost, consider adding diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash, which lend a naturally sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.

If you want to adapt the stew for dietary needs, this recipe is inherently vegan and gluten-free. However, for a lentil twist, swap out the chickpeas for lentils—red lentils will cook more quickly, while green lentils will provide firmer texture. Just be sure to adjust the simmering time accordingly until the legumes are tender.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheating is straightforward; simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, and add a splash of water or extra coconut milk if it appears too thick. I find this stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen and meld beautifully while it rests.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew in portions. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and it can last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This makes for a convenient weeknight meal option or a comforting dish to share with friends and family when needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes, the stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It's delicious with rice, quinoa, or even served alone as a hearty dish!

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! All ingredients used are plant-based, making it a great vegan choice.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.