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: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can coconut milk; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch piece ginger, grated; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 can diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: Cozy Ideas

I love making this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew because it’s a delightful fusion of flavors that transport me straight to the Caribbean. The combination of creamy coconut milk and hearty chickpeas creates a comforting dish that is as nutritious as it is delicious. With spices such as thyme and ginger, every spoonful is bursting with warmth and character. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served as a centerpiece at a gathering, this stew is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Created by

Marigold Pearson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:54:35.674Z

When I first ventured into Caribbean cooking, I stumbled upon a recipe for Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew, and it quickly became a favorite. I loved how the creamy coconut blended with the spices, creating a rich base that enhanced the earthy chickpeas. Not only is it a treat for the taste buds, but it’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthful choice.

One detail I discovered during my cooking experiments was the importance of letting the stew simmer. This not only allows the flavors to meld beautifully but also gives the chickpeas time to absorb the creamy coconut milk's richness, turning this simple dish into something extraordinary. I’ve made it my go-to for family gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A rich blend of spices for an authentic taste
Creamy texture that satisfies your cravings
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew plays a crucial role in balancing flavor and nutrition. The chickpeas are not only a great source of protein and fiber, making the stew hearty and filling, but they also absorb the rich flavors of the spices and coconut milk beautifully. If you're looking for a substitute for chickpeas, lentils can work, but remember to adjust cooking times accordingly, as they may require less time to cook through.

Coconut milk lends the stew its creamy texture and a touch of sweetness, which complements the warmth of spices like paprika and thyme. When selecting coconut milk, opt for full-fat versions for a richer flavor. Light coconut milk can be used for a lower-calorie alternative but might reduce the creaminess of the stew. Additionally, if coconut milk is unavailable, you can use almond milk, though it will not provide the same depth of flavor.

Cooking Tips for Success

Cooking the onion until soft is essential as it creates a flavorful base. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns translucent, about 5 minutes over medium heat. Don’t rush this step, as it develops the foundational flavors of the stew. Keep an eye on the garlic and ginger when added; they can burn quickly. Stirring continuously for at least a minute after adding them ensures their bright flavors infuse the dish without becoming bitter.

Simmering is key to achieving a well-blended flavor profile. After bringing the stew to a gentle boil, lowering the heat prevents the coconut milk from separating and keeps the ingredients tender without turning mushy. Allow it to simmer for a full 20 minutes; this not only melds the flavors but also thickens the stew slightly due to evaporation. If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can coconut milk
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch piece ginger, grated
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 can diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

To Garnish

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Base

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Stir in the red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the peppers to soften.

Incorporate Chickpeas and Coconut Milk

Add the drain chickpeas and coconut milk to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the stew into bowls, and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For a bit of heat, you can add some chopped jalapeño peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the stew while it simmers.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the great things about this stew is its make-ahead ease; the flavors deepen and improve when it sits overnight in the fridge. Prepare the dish up to the point of simmering, allow it to cool, and then store it in an airtight container. It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth to loosen if necessary.

If you're looking to freeze this stew, portion it out into freezer-friendly containers, making sure to leave some space at the top as the stew will expand when frozen. It can be kept for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and treat it just like previously refrigerated stew to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Stew is delicious on its own, but pairing it with rice or quinoa can elevate the meal. The grains not only soak up the creamy broth but also add a nice textural contrast. For a gluten-free option, serve it over cauliflower rice or enjoy it with crusty bread for dipping.

To enhance the flavor even further, consider adding a side of spicy mango salsa or a simple cucumber salad for some freshness to balance the stew's richness. The squeeze of lime not only adds brightness when served but also helps cut through the richness of coconut milk, giving each bite a refreshing twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure to soak them overnight and cook them in water until soft before adding to the stew.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This stew is entirely plant-based and packed with flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

→ What should I serve with this stew?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.