Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew

Name: Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 can (400ml) coconut milk; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 carrot, sliced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon thyme, dried; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 lime, juiced

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors and comforting warmth of Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew. Each spoonful is a delightful blend of spices, sweetness, and freshness that brings me right back to my favorite Jamaican restaurant. The combination of sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and aromatic herbs creates a uniquely satisfying dish that’s not just nourishing but also bursting with character. Whether enjoyed on a weekday or served at a gathering, this stew is a beloved recipe in my kitchen that I can’t wait for you to try.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:58:16.998Z

Making Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew has been a joyful experience every time I've cooked it. The secret is in using fresh ingredients and allowing them to meld together beautifully as they cook. I recall the first time I tried adding some fresh thyme to the mix; it elevated the flavor profile to a whole new level. The aroma wafting through the kitchen was simply intoxicating!

I love serving this stew with a side of fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up the rich, creamy sauce. It’s essential to let the sweet potatoes cook until they are tender yet firm enough to hold their shape. This way, you get a perfect blend of textures and flavors in each bite. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful harmony of sweet and savory flavors
Creamy coconut milk adds richness and depth
Simple, hearty ingredients perfect for a family meal

      

The Role of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the star of this stew, providing a natural sweetness and creamy texture once cooked. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for those that are firm and free of blemishes. Their vibrant orange flesh not only enhances the visual appeal but is also packed with vitamins A and C, making the stew both nutritious and comforting. When cubed, they should be evenly sized to ensure consistent cooking throughout, ideally around 1-inch pieces.

To achieve the perfect texture, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooking can turn them mushy, while undercooking may leave you with unwelcome crunchiness. The sweet potatoes should become tender but still hold their shape after about 20 minutes of simmering. If you prefer a chunkier texture, feel free to reduce the cooking time slightly.

Enhancing Flavor with Spices

The combination of thyme and allspice elevates the flavor profile of this Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew significantly. Thyme adds an earthy herbal note that balances the sweetness of the potatoes, while allspice contributes a warm, aromatic complexity reminiscent of both cloves and nutmeg. For increased depth, consider using fresh spices instead of ground ones; to release their essential oils, toast whole allspice seeds in the pot for a couple of minutes before adding the vegetables.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional spices as well. A pinch of cayenne can add a gentle kick, or you can incorporate some fresh ginger for a zesty note that pairs beautifully with coconut milk. These enhancements will make the stew uniquely yours while maintaining the core essence of its Jamaican roots.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This stew is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. For a hearty meal, pair it with fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious coconut broth. Alternatively, crusty bread makes a perfect side for dipping. To add a layer of freshness, consider garnishing with chopped cilantro or green onions right before serving; these toppings can brighten the dish beautifully.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if the stew has thickened. Alternatively, this dish freezes well for up to three months, making it an excellent option for meal prep; just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain its texture.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 carrot, sliced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 teaspoon thyme, dried
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 lime, juiced

Steps

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Sweet Potatoes

Stir in the cubed sweet potatoes, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

Simmer the Stew

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Add thyme, allspice, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, stir in lime juice for an added zesty flavor. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with rice or bread.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a diced scotch bonnet pepper while simmering. Just be cautious with the heat level!

Coconut Milk: The Creamy Element

Coconut milk is a game changer in this stew, providing a luscious creaminess that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully. When choosing your coconut milk, opt for full-fat versions for the richest texture; the low-fat varieties may not offer the same depth of flavor. Stirring the milk in as the last step helps to maintain its creamy consistency, preventing it from curdling or separating during the cooking process.

If you're looking for alternatives to coconut milk, consider using almond or cashew milk for a nutty flavor, though you may need to adjust your spices to prevent them from overpowering the stew. However, nothing quite replaces the full-bodied richness of coconut milk, so if possible, stick to the original choice for the most authentic taste.

Customizing Your Stew

Feel free to customize your Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew by adding other vegetables such as spinach, kale, or even chickpeas for added protein. Just remember to adjust your cooking times; leafy greens need only a few minutes to wilt down before they’re ready to serve, so add them at the very end of cooking. If you choose to add chickpeas, consider using canned for convenience, adding them towards the end of the simmering time to heat through.

Additionally, you can incorporate different types of sweet potatoes, such as purple or white varieties, which will lend their unique flavors and textures to the stew. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of sweet potato you use, so adjust accordingly to achieve that perfectly tender bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan as it contains no animal products.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! This stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to mix in vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.

→ How spicy is this stew?

This stew is mildly spiced, but you can adjust the heat by controlling the amount of allspice and adding peppers.