Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew

Name: Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup kale, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I’m so excited to share my take on Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew! This dish is a delicious combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and, of course, the star of the show, sweet potatoes. Cooking this stew fills my kitchen with a warm, comforting aroma that instantly transports me to the Caribbean. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the spicy and savory flavors of the broth, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. It's not only delicious but also healthy, making it a dish I love to make time and time again.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:01:17.596Z

Creating this Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew was a journey filled with vibrant flavors and aromas. I remember the first time I tasted it; I was struck by how the spices blended together, creating a symphony of warmth and depth. I learned that slow cooking allows the vegetables to soak up all the flavors, enhancing every bite. Adding coconut milk brings a creaminess that balances the spices perfectly, and that’s a trick I never skip!

One of the highlights of this stew is how versatile it is. I've experimented with various veggies, and each time, it turns out delicious! Often, I’ll add chickpeas for extra protein or throw in some spinach for a color boost. This stew is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors only deepen as it sits, making leftovers even tastier the next day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic blend of spices that awakens your senses
Hearty texture with creamy coconut milk
Nutritious and a great way to include vegetables in your diet

      

Unlocking the Flavors of Jamaican Stew

The key to achieving the robust, authentic flavors in Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew lies in the aromatic spice blend. Ground ginger and cumin not only enhance the dish's warmth but also work harmoniously with sweet potatoes' natural sweetness. When sautéing the onions and garlic, make sure they become translucent and fragrant; this foundation will elevate the overall dish. Adding spices at this stage allows them to bloom, ensuring the flavors penetrate the vegetables thoroughly.

Coconut milk also plays a vital role in this recipe, providing creaminess and a touch of sweetness that balances out the spices. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for a richer, creamier stew. If you prefer a lighter version, light coconut milk can be used, but keep in mind, it may alter the stew's texture slightly. I’ve tried substituting coconut milk with almond or oat milk, but those don’t provide the same depth of flavor.

Enhancing Texture and Nutrition

This stew is packed with nutrition, thanks to the variety of vegetables included. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, which support overall health and immunity. Adding kale boosts the nutritional value further, offering iron and calcium. If you want a more vibrant color and nutrient profile, consider adding a few diced carrots or a handful of spinach along with the kale. These will not only enhance the stew's visual appeal but also offer diverse flavors and textures.

For those looking to incorporate protein, black beans are an excellent choice. They add a hearty texture and further enrich the stew with additional fiber. If you're short on time, canned beans are a lifesaver, but make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium. If you need a vegetarian-friendly protein alternative, chickpeas work well too and can easily replace the black beans without compromising taste.

Storing and Serving Recommendations

This Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew can be made ahead of time, which makes it perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just before serving, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to regain its creamy consistency if it thickens too much. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months, making this a convenient option for busy nights.

When it comes to serving, this stew pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or warm crusty bread. It's also delightful garnished with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an added zing. If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving this stew in a hollowed-out bread loaf for a stunning presentation. I love to add a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who enjoy a little heat, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious stew:

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup kale, chopped

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavors in your stew!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew:

Sauté the vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in the bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Add sweet potatoes and spices

Add the diced sweet potatoes, ginger, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the sweet potatoes with the spices.

Pour in liquids

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Add beans and greens

Stir in the black beans and kale, cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes until the kale is wilted and everything is heated through.

Serve and enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew!

Make sure to let the stew sit for a few minutes before serving, as the flavors will meld beautifully!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This stew can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your sweet potatoes are not cooking evenly, cut them into smaller dice to ensure they cook through at the same rate as the other ingredients. A consistent size promotes uniform cooking and texture. If the stew seems a little too thick for your preference, add a bit more vegetable broth while it simmers. This way, you can adjust the consistency without compromising flavor.

After the initial simmering time, taste the stew to see if the flavors are balanced. If necessary, consider adding a pinch of sugar to enhance the sweetness of the sweet potatoes or a dash of soy sauce for added depth. Remember, cooking is about adjusting flavors to suit your palate, so don't hesitate to experiment slightly.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this recipe according to what you have on hand or your dietary needs. For a meatier option, you can add diced chicken thighs or turkey sausage that have been browned before adding the vegetables. This adaptation can infuse the dish with a wonderful savory flavor, complementing the sweetness of the sweet potatoes beautifully.

If you enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers along with the bell pepper. They add a fresh heat that contrasts nicely with the dish's inherent sweetness. Alternatively, for an herbaceous twist, fresh thyme or parsley added just before serving brightens the entire stew.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables in this stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach.

→ Is this stew vegan-friendly?

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

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper, or chopped jalapeños for extra heat.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, this stew stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and the flavors continue to develop over time.