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 inch ginger, grated; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons curry powder; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Food

I absolutely love whipping up this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew when I want something comforting and rich in flavor. The combination of creamy coconut milk, tender chickpeas, and bold spices transports me to the tropics with every spoonful. Not only is it a delightful dish that brings warmth to my table, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be hooked on the vibrant colors and delectable taste!

Created by

Philippa Grantley

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:05:40.726Z

Making Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew has become a staple in my kitchen because it's not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. I love how the chickpeas provide a great source of protein and fiber, while the coconut milk adds a rich texture and enhances the flavor beautifully. The addition of fresh herbs and spices really makes this dish stand out, giving it an authentic Jamaican twist.

I remember the first time I made this stew; I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I often customize it by adding seasonal vegetables, which not only makes it more colorful but also boosts its nutritional value. Don't forget to serve it with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up every drop of that amazing sauce!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy coconut base infused with authentic Jamaican spices
Nutritious and filling with chickpeas and fresh vegetables
Quick and easy to prepare for any night of the week

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew is undoubtedly the coconut milk. It provides a rich, creamy texture that forms the base of the dish, balancing the spices beautifully. For a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk, though it may slightly alter the consistency. The chickpeas not only add protein but also contribute a wonderful creaminess as they cook down. If you're in a pinch, cooked lentils can be a good substitute while maintaining a satisfying texture.

Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions are essential not just for flavor but also for texture. When sautéed, these veggies caramelize and develop sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of the stew. Use a variety of bell peppers for a pop of color—red and yellow create a stunning visual while also offering different flavor notes. If you can, choose organic vegetables for the best taste, as they often have a more robust flavor that stands up to the spices.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

A key technique for this stew is the sautéing of the aromatics. Aim for a medium heat to ensure that the onions become translucent and fragrant without burning. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and add a touch of salt early to draw moisture from the onions, enhancing their sweetness. If you notice the garlic starting to brown, lower the heat right away; burnt garlic can introduce a bitter taste that can ruin your dish.

Simmering is crucial for developing the flavors. After adding the chickpeas, coconut milk, and tomatoes, make sure to bring the mix to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, allowing the stew to maintain a gentle simmer. This should take about 20 minutes; you'll know it’s ready when the stew is thickened, and the oils from the coconut milk begin to separate slightly. Stir occasionally to keep things from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a rich, flavorful stew.

Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can coconut milk
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a comforting stew.

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add Veggies and Spices

Stir in the bell pepper, curry powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

Combine and Simmer

Add the chickpeas, coconut milk, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve and Garnish

Once the stew is thickened and flavorful, serve it hot garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy it with rice or bread!

Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your homemade stew!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach or sweet potatoes, for added nutrients and flavor!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew can be easily made ahead of time. Prepare the entire dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will actually deepen as they sit, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. When reheating, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra coconut milk to loosen the consistency if needed.

If you want to store it longer, this stew freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. You can freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance this stew, consider serving it over fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. Jasmine or basmati rice pairs wonderfully, absorbing the creamy coconut sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh green salad to lighten the meal while keeping it nutritious.

Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions for a burst of freshness. A squeeze of lime juice just before serving can elevate the flavors, adding brightness that balances the richness of the stew. If you like it spicy, consider serving with a side of pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftover stew?

Absolutely, you can freeze the stew in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

→ What other proteins can I add?

You can add cooked chicken or tofu if you're looking to change it up!

→ Can I make it spicier?

Yes, adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper can increase the heat!