Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl

Name: Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and diced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love how this Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl brings vibrant flavors and comforting warmth to the table. The combination of spices, including allspice and cinnamon, elevates the pumpkin and chickpeas to create a rich and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and makes for great leftovers too. Whether topped with a dollop of yogurt or enjoyed as is, this bowl bursts with wholesome goodness that nourishes both body and soul. It's a dish I come back to again and again during the cooler months.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:43:11.801Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the spices melded together, creating a warm and inviting aroma. I started experimenting with pumpkin and chickpeas, and this bowl quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The secret is to roast the pumpkin until it's caramelized, as it enhances the sweetness and flavor.

During the cooking process, I discovered that adding coconut milk at the end gives the dish a creamy texture without overwhelming the spices. It’s a delightful balance that keeps everyone coming back for more, whether for a family meal or a dinner party.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful blend of Caribbean spices that warms the soul
Creamy coconut milk adds a luscious texture
Packed with protein and nutrients, perfect for a wholesome meal

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Flavor

The key to achieving a truly vibrant flavor in this dish lies in how you roast the pumpkin. I recommend cutting the pumpkin into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking and caramelization. Keep an eye on them while roasting; look for a tender texture and a slightly golden edge, which will enhance the natural sweetness of the pumpkin. Roasting at a high temperature like 400°F (200°C) not only cooks the pumpkin quickly but also develops those rich, deep flavors that complement the spices beautifully.

When sautéing the onion and garlic, aim for a golden color without burning. This process creates a base layer of sweetness that elevates the overall dish. Use medium heat, and stir frequently; if the mixture begins to stick, feel free to add a splash of water or another drip of olive oil. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for the spices to bloom as they mix with the aromatics.

Ingredient Insights

Coconut milk is a star ingredient in this bowl, lending a creamy texture that brings everything together. Choose a full-fat coconut milk for a richer taste, but if you're looking to lighten the dish, you can opt for light coconut milk—just keep in mind that it might be less creamy. The creaminess from the coconut milk balances beautifully with the spices and the earthiness of the chickpeas, creating a luscious sauce that clings to every bite.

The chickpeas not only add protein but also serve as the perfect canvas for the bold flavors of allspice, cumin, and cinnamon. If you want to modify the protein element, you can substitute with lentils, but you'll want to adjust the cooking time since lentils don't require as much cooking as chickpeas. Just be sure to partially cook them before adding to the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Make-Ahead Tips

This Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it further by adding a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini for added creaminess. A squeeze of fresh lime right before serving adds a pop of brightness that balances out the spices wonderfully. Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal that is not only satisfying but visually stunning with the vibrant colors of pumpkin and herbs.

Prepare this bowl ahead of time to save on meal prep during busy days. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to freeze it, portion it out and keep it in freezer-safe containers, and it will last up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, and then warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if necessary for consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl:

Ingredients

1 medium pumpkin, peeled and diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl:

Roast the Pumpkin

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced pumpkin with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Combine Ingredients

Add the chickpeas, allspice, cumin, cinnamon, and roasted pumpkin to the skillet. Mix well to combine. Pour in the coconut milk and stir gently.

Simmer and Serve

Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious and flavorful dish!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice just before serving. This brightens the dish and enhances the spices beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

To store the leftovers of your Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl, ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help prevent condensation, which can make the dish watery. When ready to eat, you can simply warm it in the microwave; however, to preserve the best texture and flavors, I prefer reheating it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently to ensure even warming.

If you've frozen portions, remember to allow for sufficient thawing time before reheating. The flavors will deepen as they sit, so leftovers can sometimes taste even better. Always taste and adjust seasoning after reheating, as the flavors might mellow out slightly during storage.

Variations to Try

Feel free to mix up the spices based on your preference or availability. Adding a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper can introduce a nice warmth, while fresh ginger can enhance the freshness of the dish. You can also try adding different vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition and color, adjusting for the cooking times accordingly so everything remains tender and delicious.

For a heartier version, consider incorporating a grain like quinoa or farro into the bowl. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds an interesting texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy coconut milk and spiced pumpkin. Just cook the grains separately according to package instructions and layer them at the bottom of the bowl just before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of squash instead of pumpkin?

Absolutely! Butternut squash works wonderfully and provides a similar texture and taste.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, it contains no animal products and is entirely plant-based.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add a dash of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce while sautéing the onions.

→ Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can chop the vegetables and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just assemble and cook when ready.