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 diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 can (400ml) coconut milk; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup spinach, chopped

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew because it's a warm, comforting dish that brings vibrant flavors to my kitchen. The combination of sweet potatoes with spices like ginger and allspice creates a delightful aroma. It’s not just filling but also incredibly nutritious, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and full of plant-based goodness, so it’s perfect for everyone around the table to enjoy!

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:49:18.846Z

Cooking Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew has become one of my favorite ways to infuse warmth into my home, especially during the cooler months. Recently, I experimented with adding coconut milk, which not only adds creaminess but elevates the stew's tropical flavor profile. The combination of sweet and savory ingredients makes every spoonful a delight!

I've learned that the key to achieving depth in flavor is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding the sweet potatoes and broth. This simple technique helps to enhance the overall flavor of the stew, ensuring that every bite is rich and savory. Trust me, taking a little extra time to develop those base flavors pays off tremendously in the end!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and comforting flavors of sweet potatoes and spices
Creamy texture from coconut milk
Easy to make and great for meal prep

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this stew is undoubtedly the sweet potatoes. They not only provide a natural sweetness but also a creamy texture when cooked down. Choosing the right variety is key; I prefer using orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for their rich flavor and vibrant color. These sweet potatoes break down slightly during cooking, creating a thick base for the stew, making it feel hearty without the need for any meat.

Coconut milk adds a luxurious creaminess and balances the spiciness from the ginger and allspice. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute part of the coconut milk with almond milk or vegetable broth. However, I recommend maintaining at least one cup of coconut milk for that signature silky texture that coats the sweet potatoes beautifully.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

When sautéing the aromatics like onions and garlic, aim for a golden hue. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds depth to the overall dish. Keep an eye on the heat; too high, and your garlic can burn, turning bitter. Medium heat is ideal, allowing the aromatics to soften and release their essential oils, creating a fragrant base for your stew.

While cooking, frequent stirring ensures even cooking and prevents any sticking to the pot. If you notice it starting to catch, add a splash of vegetable broth to deglaze the bottom and lift those flavorful bits that form during sautéing. This is where a lot of flavor lives, enhancing the overall taste of the stew.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew:

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup spinach, chopped

Make sure to check your pantry for any additional spices you might want to add!

Instructions

Let's get cooking! Follow these steps to create your Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices

Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 3 minutes. Sprinkle the allspice, salt, and pepper over the mixture.

Pour in Coconut Milk and Broth

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Add Spinach and Serve

Once the sweet potatoes are tender, stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pair this hearty stew with your choice of crusty bread or rice for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This stew is versatile and can be paired with various sides. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or alongside some warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread allows you to soak up the delicious broth, enhancing each bite. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of freshness just before serving.

If you want to elevate the dish further, consider adding a squeeze of lime or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. The acidity from the lime cuts through the creaminess of the coconut milk, brightening the overall flavor profile.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This stew is not only delicious fresh but also makes for excellent leftovers. If you plan to make it ahead, store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors continue to develop over time, giving it an even more robust taste. Just reheat it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to loosen it up.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to three months. Cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop. Note that the spinach may lose some texture after freezing, so if you prefer it fresh, add it right before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are gluten-free, ensuring it's suitable for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I make this stew spicy?

Yes! Add some chopped chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a nice heat.

→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use almond milk or any dairy alternative, but the coconut milk adds a unique flavor.