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 coconut oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) coconut milk; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew because it brings a taste of the tropics right into my kitchen. The first time I tried this dish, I was amazed at how the creamy coconut milk envelops the chickpeas and vegetables, creating a comforting and hearty meal. Each spoonful is packed with flavor from spices like ginger and garlic, and I appreciate how simple it is to prepare. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or for sharing with friends at a gathering. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:52:12.947Z

When I first made Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The combination of tender chickpeas with the rich flavor of coconut milk creates a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. I was pleasantly surprised at how well the spices meld together, giving each bite a delightful warmth.

One crucial tip I discovered is to adjust the seasoning at the end of cooking. As flavors develop, you may want to enhance them with a bit more salt or a squeeze of lime juice. This small tweak made a significant difference, elevating the stew to perfection!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut milk adds a rich depth of flavor.
Hearty chickpeas make it satisfying and nutritious.
Simple ingredients can easily be substituted or added based on your preference.

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star of this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew, providing not only creaminess but also a subtle sweetness that harmonizes with the spices. Using full-fat coconut milk yields a richer texture, while light coconut milk can make the dish more calorie-conscious without compromising too much on flavor. If you're avoiding coconut for any reason, consider blending cashews with water to create a similar creamy base that will complement the dish beautifully.

When adding coconut milk, it's essential to stir well to ensure it fully incorporates into the stew and doesn't separate during cooking. Look for coconut milk that is free from additives for the best taste and texture. Homemade coconut milk can also be an excellent choice if you have access to fresh coconuts—just blend the meat with water and strain for a luscious alternative.

Choosing Your Vegetables

While the recipe calls for a red bell pepper and diced tomatoes, feel free to mix and match with other vegetables based on what you have at home. Carrots, zucchini, or even spinach can be great additions, adding vibrant color and nutrition. Just remember to chop them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. If you prefer a spicier stew, throw in some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers along with the regular vegetables.

Sautéing the vegetables until they are slightly tender before adding the liquids enhances their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Aim for a 4-5 minute cooking time on medium heat, until the onions are glossy and the bell pepper starts to soften. This foundational step is crucial for building a well-rounded flavor profile in the stew.

Serving and Storing Your Stew

Once you've simmered your stew and it has thickened slightly, it's perfect for serving. Traditionally, Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew can be paired with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. Adding a side of plantains or a green salad can elevate the meal, providing a lovely contrast in textures and flavors. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving; it adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes.

This stew is fantastic for meal prep, as it stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. You can also freeze it for up to three months—just ensure you leave a little space in the container for expansion. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up, and heat gently on the stove to maintain the creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to kick off your Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) coconut milk
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add Vegetables and Spices

Stir in the red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and all the spices (cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper). Cook for another 3–4 minutes until fragrant.

Incorporate Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, then add the chickpeas. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Simmer and Serve

Let the stew simmer for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips

For extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes during the sautéing process. This stew goes well with rice or crusty bread.

Ingredient Variations

If you’re looking to modify the dish for dietary preferences, this stew is very adaptable. For a nut-free version, simply use vegetable oil instead of coconut oil. If you're aiming for a protein boost, consider adding lentils or tofu in addition to the chickpeas; simply adjust cooking times accordingly, as lentils may require slightly more liquid and a longer simmer.

For a bit of tang, add a squeeze of lime juice right before serving—this brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing finish. Additionally, if you're avoiding nightshades, swap out the tomatoes for a bit of tomato paste or pumpkin puree, which will maintain moisture while providing a different yet delightful flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your stew comes out too watery, don’t worry! You can help thicken it by simmering it longer, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mash some of the chickpeas directly in the pot with a fork or potato masher—the starch from the chickpeas will help create a creamier texture.

On the other hand, if the flavors are too muted for your liking, a little extra seasoning can go a long way. Taste your stew as it simmers and adjust the spices incrementally. Sometimes a pinch of salt or a dash of cayenne can enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.

Scaling Up the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable if you're expecting guests or want to meal prep for the week. To double the recipe, simply increase all ingredients proportionally; this dish holds up well to larger quantities. Just ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate the additional volume without overflowing, and keep an eye on the simmering time, as it may take a little longer with a larger batch.

For a one-pot meal that's even heartier, try adding a variety of beans alongside the chickpeas, such as black beans or kidney beans. This not only enhances the protein content but also adds a variety of colors and textures to the stew, making it visually appealing as well as delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors develop beautifully when reheated, so it's perfect for meal prep.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes, this stew is entirely plant-based and vegan!

→ What can I use instead of chickpeas?

You can substitute chickpeas with lentils or even diced potatoes for a different texture.

→ How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.