Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew

Name: Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can coconut milk (400ml); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil, for sautéing; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Heritage Collection

I absolutely love preparing Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew, especially in the cooler months. The vibrant colors and harmonious blend of spices instantly brighten my kitchen and elevate my mood. Each ingredient plays a role, from the earthy sweet potatoes to the aromatic herbs that create the heartwarming flavor. What I appreciate most is how versatile this dish is - it can stand alone or serve as a delicious side. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some extra vegetables into our meals!

Created by

Tilda Greenwood

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:41:35.022Z

Making Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew is like a culinary journey for me. The depth of flavors achieved by simmering together sweet potatoes, black beans, and spices is simply heavenly. I have discovered that adding a splash of coconut milk at the end not only enhances the creaminess but also ties all the ingredients together beautifully. It’s these little tweaks that personalize the dish and make it uniquely mine.

One evening, I decided to serve this stew at a gathering, and the overwhelming compliments made my heart soar. I truly believe the secret lies in allowing the stew to rest for a few minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld. This comforting dish brings everyone together, and it’s a recipe I’m proud to share.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture balanced with a hint of spice
Nutritious and filling, perfect for family meals
Can easily be adapted with seasonal vegetables

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew is chosen for its unique contribution to flavor and texture. Sweet potatoes not only provide natural sweetness but also create a creamy texture as they cook down. The addition of black beans brings heartiness and plant-based protein, making this stew a fulfilling meal. You can use canned beans for convenience, but if you choose to use dried beans, remember to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

The spices are another star of the dish. Curry powder infuses a warm, slightly spicy flavor, while thyme adds a fragrant earthiness. If you're looking for a custom flavor profile, consider using different curry blends, such as Jamaican or Indian curry, to explore various flavor notes. Fresh herbs also serve as a great way to enhance aroma—feel free to experiment with additional spices like cumin or paprika to achieve a unique twist.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Stew

Sautéing the onions, garlic, and bell peppers at medium heat is essential for developing depth in the stew's flavor. Make sure to stir frequently, allowing the vegetables to soften without burning, approximately 5-7 minutes. You want the onions to become translucent, which indicates they've released their natural sugars and begun caramelizing, setting the stage for balanced sweetness in the final dish.

When it comes to simmering, keep an eye on the consistency of the stew. After 30 minutes, check for the sweet potatoes' tenderness. They should be fork-tender but not falling apart. If the stew seems a bit thick, add a little extra vegetable broth to adjust the consistency to your liking. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce it down.

Ingredients

Gathering the ingredients for this stew sets the stage for a delicious meal!

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can coconut milk (400ml)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for sautéing
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Once you have gathered these ingredients, you’re ready to create a wonderful stew!

Instructions

Let’s get started on this comforting Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the pot and stir in the curry powder and thyme. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the potatoes.

Combine and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk, then add the black beans. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.

Season and Serve

Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Once the sweet potatoes are tender, remove from heat and let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your homemade Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, try including carrots or spinach in the stew. If you prefer more heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the spice level.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep. Make a large batch and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Just remember to cool the stew completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.

When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, usually about 10-15 minutes. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the stew thickens too much during storage.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Sweet Potato Stew can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside a variety of accompaniments. I love pairing it with fluffy rice, which absorbs the stew’s rich flavors beautifully. Alternatively, serve it with warm cornbread for a comforting complete meal. You can also top it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta for a creamy contrast.

For a fresh element, consider garnishing with avocado slices or a squeeze of lime juice, enhancing the overall flavor profile. This stew is also a fantastic addition to a potluck; it travels well and is hearty enough to satisfy a crowd, making it a versatile choice for any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes, this stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use other beans?

Absolutely! You can substitute black beans with kidney beans or even chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making this stew completely vegan-friendly.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, include fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can adjust the spice level according to your taste.