Jamaican Pumpkin Coconut Stew

Name: Jamaican Pumpkin Coconut Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups diced pumpkin; 1 can (400ml) coconut milk; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: International World Food Collection

I fell in love with this Jamaican Pumpkin Coconut Stew during my travels to the Caribbean. The combination of sweet pumpkin with creamy coconut milk creates a delicious symphony of flavors that dances on the palate. Each spoonful is a warm hug, perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests at dinner parties. This stew is not only rich in taste but also a great way to incorporate seasonal produce into our meals. I can't wait for you to try this recipe and experience the vibrant flavors of Jamaica in your kitchen!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:49:34.542Z

During one of my unforgettable trips to Jamaica, I stumbled upon a local eatery serving a stunning Pumpkin Coconut Stew that left a lasting impression on me. I knew I had to recreate this dish at home! The use of fresh ingredients like pumpkin and coconut milk made each bite a heavenly experience. I learned that letting the stew simmer allows all the spices to meld beautifully, enhancing the flavors exponentially.

What I particularly love about this recipe is its adaptability; you can switch up the ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. For instance, adding some black beans or chickpeas can boost the protein content. Each time I make this stew, it feels like I'm bringing a piece of Jamaica to my kitchen.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty pumpkin flavor with a tropical twist from coconut milk
Easy to customize with seasonal vegetables or proteins
Perfectly warming for chilly evenings or casual gatherings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of this Jamaican Pumpkin Coconut Stew lies in its ingredients. Pumpkin not only adds a sweet, earthy base but also serves as a great source of vitamins A and C. When selecting pumpkin, look for ones that feel heavy for their size, with a firm skin and a vibrant color. This ensures maximum flavor and texture in your stew.

Coconut milk brings a rich creaminess that enhances the stew's overall profile. It's essential to use high-quality coconut milk, preferably from a can, as fresh coconut can be difficult to work with. The creaminess of the coconut milk melds beautifully with the pumpkin, creating a comforting texture that lingers on the palate.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing your aromatics at the beginning is crucial for building flavor. When you heat the oil and add the onion, garlic, and ginger, cook them until the onion is translucent and fragrant—typically about 5 minutes. This initial step creates a aromatic foundation upon which the rest of the stew is built.

Pay close attention while adding your spices. Incorporating the ground cumin and coriander after the vegetables helps to toast them, enhancing their flavors. Stir them in and let them cook for a minute before adding the coconut milk to ensure maximum flavor extraction.

Serving and Storing

Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with rice or crusty bread, which helps soak up the creamy goodness. For a touch of heat, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to each bowl.

If you have leftovers, store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Main Ingredients

2 cups diced pumpkin
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to add your favorite legumes or greens to enhance the flavor and nutrition of this stew.

Instructions

Make sure to prep all your ingredients before you begin cooking for a hassle-free cooking experience.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent.

Cook the Pumpkin

Add the diced pumpkin and bell pepper to the pot. Stir for another 5 minutes to combine before adding the ground cumin and coriander.

Add the Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper. Let the stew cook for about 20 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.

Final Touch

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Dietary Tips

This Jamaican Pumpkin Coconut Stew is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it accessible for a variety of dietary preferences. If you're looking to add protein, consider incorporating chickpeas or lentils. They not only align well with the stew's flavor but also boost its nutritional value without compromising its richness.

For those watching their carbohydrate intake, you can substitute the pumpkin with other low-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower. While this will create a different flavor profile, the creamy coconut base will still deliver a satisfying dish.

Flavor Enhancements

For a flavor twist, consider adding spices like nutmeg or allspice. These spices complement the sweetness of the pumpkin and add an extra layer of warmth to the stew. Start with just a pinch, as these spices can quickly overpower the dish if added in excess.

Another enhancement is to add a squeeze of lime juice just before serving. This bright acidity counters the stew's richness, enlivening the overall flavor. It’s such a simple addition but can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even greens like spinach work great in this stew.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this stew vegan?

Yes! This stew is naturally vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients.