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Caribbean Pumpkin and Chickpea Stew With Spiced Dumplings

A hearty Caribbean-inspired stew featuring seasonal pumpkin and protein-rich chickpeas, simmered with warm island spices and served alongside spiced dumplings for a comforting weeknight meal.

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Caribbeanmedium70 minServes 4
Caribbean Pumpkin and Chickpea Stew with Spiced Dumplings plated and ready to serve

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Servings

4

Originally developed for 4 servings.

Ingredient checklist

Method

0 of 11 steps complete
  1. No timer needed
    Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. 05:00
    Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. 01:00
    Stir in the minced garlic, thyme leaves, ground allspice, ground cinnamon, and chopped scotch bonnet chili (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. No timer needed
    Add the diced pumpkin, drained chickpeas, canned chopped tomatoes, and vegetable stock to the pot. Stir to combine.
  5. 30:00
    Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pumpkin is tender and stew has thickened slightly.
  6. No timer needed
    Season the stew with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep warm on low heat while you prepare the dumplings.
  7. No timer needed
    In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt for the dumplings.
  8. No timer needed
    Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but hold together.
  9. No timer needed
    Bring a medium pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Using wet hands, shape the dough into small balls about 3 cm in diameter.
  10. 10:00
    Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water. Cover the pot and cook for 10 minutes until dumplings are puffed up and cooked through. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
  11. No timer needed
    Use a slotted spoon to remove the dumplings. Serve the stew hot with spiced dumplings on the side or floating on top.

Chef tips

  • For a milder stew, omit the scotch bonnet chili or reduce the amount.
  • If you prefer thicker stew, simmer uncovered longer until desired consistency.
  • The dumplings can also be cooked by steaming if preferred.
  • This stew freezes well without dumplings; prepare fresh dumplings when reheating.

Equipment check

  • large saucepan or Dutch oven
  • wooden spoon
  • mixing bowl
  • measuring spoons and cups
  • knife and chopping board
  • medium pot with lid (for dumplings)

Nutrition per serving

  • Calories380
  • Protein15 g
  • Carbs60 g
  • Fat7 g

Tags

StewCaribbeanDinnerVegetarianComfort Food

Behind the dish.

Overview

This Caribbean-inspired pumpkin and chickpea stew is a comforting and nutritious dish that brings warmth and spice to your table. The stew combines tender chunks of seasonal pumpkin with protein-rich chickpeas, all simmered in a flavorful broth infused with traditional Caribbean spices. Served with aromatic spiced dumplings, this meal is perfect for cozy weeknights or as a satisfying vegetarian dinner.

Why you’ll love it

The stew is rich in texture and flavor, with the sweetness of pumpkin balancing the earthy chickpeas and warm spices like allspice and thyme. The spiced dumplings add a delightful bite and soak up the savory broth, making every mouthful satisfying. It's a nutritious, plant-based meal that warms the soul and can easily be adapted for meal prep.

Ingredient notes

Use a firm pumpkin variety such as sugar pumpkin or kabocha for the best texture. Canned chickpeas are a convenient option, but you can also use dried chickpeas soaked overnight and cooked beforehand. Fresh thyme and allspice are key aromatics that give this stew its distinctive Caribbean flavor. The dumplings are lightly spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, adding a cozy depth to the dish.

Serving & storage

Serve the stew hot with the spiced dumplings on the side or floating on top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until steaming hot. Dumplings are best eaten fresh but can be refrigerated and lightly steamed or microwaved to refresh.

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