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 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, sliced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 bell peppers, diced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it perfectly combines sweet potatoes, vibrant spices, and hearty vegetables. Each time I prepare it, I find a new depth of flavor that surprises me. It's not just about the ingredients, but how they come together to create a warm, nourishing stew. Plus, it’s easy to make in large batches, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings with friends. The sweet and savory notes truly bring comfort to any table!

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:31:20.140Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew at a local festival, I was hooked! The combination of sweet potatoes with spices like ginger and thyme dances on the palate and warms the soul. I decided to try making it myself, and after a few batches, I perfected my own version. One crucial tip I found is to let the stew simmer longer; this truly enhances the flavors and melds everything beautifully.

Each time my friends come over, I make sure to prepare this delightful stew, and it never fails to impress them. The colorful vegetables not only make it visually appealing but also pack it full of nutrients. Serve it with rice or bread for a complete meal that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and comforting flavors with a hint of spice
Easy to make and ideal for any occasion
Nutritious and filling, perfect for a healthy meal

      

The Role of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the heart of this stew, providing a naturally sweet and creamy base. Their starchiness helps thicken the stew while adding depth to the flavor. Choose firm, unblemished sweet potatoes that are rich in color, as these often indicate better flavor and sweetness. When diced, they should be uniform in size to ensure even cooking. If you want to enhance the sweetness, consider roasting the sweet potatoes for a few minutes before adding them to the pot; this caramelization will elevate your stew's flavor profile.

When cooking sweet potatoes, be mindful of their tenderness. They can rapidly go from firm to mushy if overcooked. By adding them at an early stage but simmering only until fork-tender (about 20 minutes), you ensure they maintain their shape and contribute a great texture to the overall dish. If there are leftovers, sweet potato can be easily repurposed in salads or blended into smoothies.

Spice Balance

The spices in Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew are not just for flavor; they also play critical roles in building its aromatic profile. Cumin adds earthy warmth, while thyme brings an herbaceous, fresh note that complements the rich coconut milk. Adjusting the spice levels is key to making the dish your own; for more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or a sliced chili pepper during the simmering phase. Be cautious and taste as you go, since the spices can dominate if added in excess.

Fresh ginger is essential in this recipe, providing a zesty kick that brightens up the natural sweetness of the potatoes. If fresh ginger isn't available, ground ginger can work in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly different. As you whisk the spices with the liquid, allow them to dissolve completely to avoid clumping and ensure an even distribution throughout the stew.

Serving and Storing

This stew is delicious freshly made, but it also stores wonderfully. Refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days. If you're looking to make it ahead, consider preparing the base (without the black beans and bell peppers) and adding those ingredients just before serving. This will help preserve their texture but still allow you to enjoy a hearty meal any day of the week.

For serving, garnish the stew with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the wonderful flavors. Some enjoy a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of feta cheese to add a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the stew, creating a unique blend of flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

Gather all of the following ingredients to prepare this wholesome stew:

Ingredients

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

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a delicious Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect stew:

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Sweet Potatoes and Carrot

Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and sliced carrot. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.

Add Liquids and Spices

Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk, then add thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a simmer.

Cook Together

Reduce the heat and let the stew simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Final Touch

Stir in the diced bell peppers and black beans, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Your Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew is now ready! Serve it hot and enjoy the flavors.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, let the stew sit overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even more.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew not only makes for a hearty meal but is also fantastic for make-ahead preparations. You can cook the stew completely, allow it to cool, and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, the stew can be thawed in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheated on the stove over low heat, ensuring it maintains its texture and flavor.

Alternatively, you can chop all your vegetables the night before and store them in the fridge. This reduces prep time when you’re ready to cook and allows you to dive straight into the sautéing. Just be sure to keep the sweet potatoes submerged in water to prevent them from browning.

Variations to Try

While the traditional recipe is delicious, try experimenting with other vegetables such as zucchini, corn, or spinach for added nutrients and varied textures. Adding a bay leaf during simmering can introduce a subtle depth, while adding some diced tomatoes can enhance the stew's richness. Don’t hesitate to switch out black beans for chickpeas or lentils for a different protein source and texture.

If you prefer a thicker stew, after the first cooking phase, use a potato masher to gently break down some sweet potatoes while leaving others intact. This technique adds a velvety texture while maintaining chunks for bite. Remember, each variation can lead to exciting new flavor combinations, so feel free to explore!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find the stew too thick, simply add a bit more vegetable broth or coconut milk while it simmers; heat will help integrate the added liquid smoothly. In contrast, if your stew ends up runny, a corn starch slurry can help thicken it. Mix one tablespoon of corn starch with two tablespoons of water and stir it in; let it simmer for a few more minutes to become glossy and thickened.

Be careful when seasoning—salt can bring out the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, but too much can overwhelm the dish's delicate balance. Start with a small pinch and taste as you go, adjusting according to your preference. The beauty of this stew is in its flexibility, so don’t be afraid to customize it according to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew vegan?

Yes, this recipe is inherently vegan due to the use of vegetable broth and coconut milk.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.

→ What can I serve with the stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or peas for variety.