Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl

Name: Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups pumpkin, diced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups spinach; 1 avocado, sliced; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; 2 tablespoons tahini; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; Juice of 1 lime; Water, to thin

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love creating vibrant meals that not only excite the palate but also nourish the body. This Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl is one of my favorites, bursting with flavors and textures. The combination of spiced pumpkin and hearty chickpeas creates a satisfying dish that's perfect for any time of the year. I appreciate how easy it is to whip up, and it fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. Plus, it's a great way to use up seasonal ingredients while keeping things healthy and delicious!

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:19:13.314Z

When I first attempted this Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl, I was captivated by the layers of flavor that blend so beautifully together. I discovered that roasting the pumpkin beforehand enhances its natural sweetness, which delights the taste buds. I also found that adding a dash of allspice and thyme elevates the dish beyond the ordinary, making it memorable.

This bowl not only satisfies hunger but it's also visually appealing. The mix of colors from the pumpkin, chickpeas, and greens creates a feast for the eyes. Make sure to garnish with fresh herbs for an aromatic finish that ties everything together!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful harmony of spices that transports you to the Caribbean
Nutritious chickpeas paired with sweet pumpkin create a filling meal
Quick and easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep

      

The Role of Pumpkin and Chickpeas

In this Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl, pumpkin serves as the star ingredient, imparting a natural sweetness and creamy texture when roasted. The dicing of pumpkin should be uniform, roughly 1-inch cubes, ensuring even cooking. When roasted, look for the edges to become slightly caramelized and tender, providing a delightful contrast to the crisp texture of the sautéed chickpeas.

Chickpeas not only add protein and fiber but also a satisfying crunch when properly sautéed. It's important to use canned chickpeas for convenience, but if you're using dried ones, soak and cook them until tender for the best results. The sautéing process should produce a golden-brown exterior; for optimal crispiness, ensure your pan is hot before adding them.

Tips for a Flavorful Dressing

The tahini dressing plays an essential role in balancing the dish's flavors. When whisking, you might find the mixture thick; adding water gradually helps achieve a creamy, pourable consistency that enhances each bite. If tahini is unavailable, almond or sunflower seed butter can serve as great alternatives, but each will lend a unique flavor to the dressing.

To further customize your dressing, consider adding garlic powder or a pinch of cayenne for heat. The acidity from the lime juice brightens the dish, so ensure it’s freshly squeezed for the best flavor. Adjust sweetness with more or less maple syrup, depending on your taste preference—this flexibility is ideal when you want to modify flavors to suit your palate.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This bowl is incredibly versatile and can be served as a standalone main or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish for a heartier meal. For a creative spin, try adding cooked quinoa or brown rice at the base for extra texture and nutrients, which can also help make the dish more filling.

If you're preparing this dish ahead of time, store each component separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The components should last up to four days in the fridge. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the pumpkin and chickpeas while serving them over fresh spinach for a lovely contrast in temperatures.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this vibrant dish:

For the Bowl

2 cups pumpkin, diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups spinach
1 avocado, sliced
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

For the Dressing

2 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon maple syrup
Juice of 1 lime
Water, to thin

Make sure to prep everything before you start cooking for an efficient workflow.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl:

Roast the Pumpkin

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced pumpkin with olive oil, allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes, or until tender.

Prepare the Chickpeas

While the pumpkin is roasting, heat a pan over medium heat. Add the chickpeas and sauté them for 5-7 minutes until slightly crispy. Season with salt to taste.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, maple syrup, lime juice, and enough water to achieve your desired consistency.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer spinach, roasted pumpkin, sautéed chickpeas, and sliced avocado. Drizzle with the tahini dressing and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your bowl warm, or store for meal prep throughout the week!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like roasted bell peppers or kale for extra nutrition. You can also try different spices based on your preference.

Storage and Reheating

To keep your Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl fresh and flavorful, store the components separately. The roasted pumpkin and chickpeas can be refrigerated in airtight containers for up to four days. Make sure the pumpkin is completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

When ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the pumpkin and chickpeas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for even heating. Alternatively, use a microwave; just ensure to cover them to retain moisture, heating in short bursts to prevent overcooking.

Flavor Enhancements

For those who crave a bit of heat, adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the chickpeas while sautéing can elevate the dish's flavor profile. You might also consider finishing the bowl with a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick.

For added texture and crunch, sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds on top just before serving. Not only do these seeds enhance the visual appeal, but they also provide healthy fats and an extra layer of flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, the recipe is already vegan! All ingredients are plant-based.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I use pumpkin puree instead of fresh pumpkin?

Yes, you can substitute pumpkin puree, but do not roast it. Simply mix with the chickpeas and spices.

→ What can I substitute for tahini?

You can use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or simply olive oil for a lighter dressing.