Jamaican Chickpea Curry (Authentic & Delicious)

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This recipe is incredibly simple and only takes a few steps to have an authentic curry based dish that tastes like it was made right in the islands. This 30 minute Jamaican chickpea curry recipe is aromatic, savoury, and great for meal prep. Its a must try and a perfect addition to a boring weekday.

If you like this recipe there’s no doubt you’ll also enjoy my Jamaican style Lentil Potato curry recipe.

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Why should you make Jamaican Chickpea Curry?

The real question is why wouldn’t you make this decadent and aromatic meal?! Its a great plant based alternative for those who want a healthier legume based Caribbean curry without the goat or chicken.

Almost every Caribbean island has their own version of a curry dish. Jamaican curry greatly differs from Indian curry in the seasonings and spices. Jamaicans use an actual curry powder base of turmeric. On the other hand, Indians may use a mixture of different fresh/blended vegetables to create their curries.

Using the right spices is essential to creating an authentic Jamaican curry meal. I always use Jamaican curry powder. My favorite brand is Blue Mountain, grab a bottle here. I also like to use the curry from Betpec if I’m out of my fave. Betapec Jamaican curry powder can be found here.

What you’ll need

Don’t be frightened by the amount of ingredients listed for this recipe. Most of these things are mostly likely already in your kitchen and can be easily purchased if not. Many curry recipes commonly call for coconut milk but surprisingly this dish tastes amazing without it!

Chickpeas
Red Potatoes
Scallion
Onion
Bell Pepper
Garlic
Ginger
Scotch Bonnet (leave whole or the recipe will be very spicy!)
Thyme
Tomato
Coconut Milk (optional)

Seasonings for Jamaican Chickpea Curry

Jamaican Curry Powder- My go brand is Blue Mountain and you can get a bottle with this link.
No salt Seasoning – This seasoning can be replaced with onion powder. However, it adds a ton of flavor without added salt. My favorite brand is Mrs. Dash, grab a bottle here.
All Purpose- This spice blend is basically a must in Caribbean cooking. A bottle of Jamaican All- Purpose can be purchased here.
Lime Juice- Totally optional but I find a little bit of lime juice truly brings out the flavor of the dish.
Garlic Powder
Cumin
Paprika
Black Pepper
Sea salt (to taste)

How to make Jamaican Chickpea curry

1. First, throughly wash and chop the fresh produce and potatoes into small pieces. Leave the thyme and scotch Bonet whole.

2. Once the fresh herbs have been chopped, heat oil in a hot pan. Add in the fresh veg once the oil is hot enough and sauce for 2 minutes.

3. Add in the dry seasonings and stir. Throw in the chickpeas potato mix and water.

4. Cover the pan then allow to cook for about 15 minutes.

5. After the chickpeas and potatoes have cooked, add in the coconut milk or extra water and allow to cook for another 5 minutes.

How to store Jamaican Chickpea Curry

This Jamaican chickpea curry recipe is great for meal prep! Store in a large container and reheat on the stove or microwave. The longer the dish sits, the more the spices intensify. The dish can last in the fridge for about 5 days.

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Check out these other delicious authentic Jamaican recipes to cook for dinner tonight

Jamaican Rice and Peas
Lentil Potato Curry Jamaican-Style
Jamaican Steamed Cabbage