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, rinsed and drained; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 cups cooked quinoa or rice; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving; Sliced avocado; Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt; Chopped nuts or seeds

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love creating bowls that combine vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients. One of my favorite creations is the Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl. The warmth of the spices paired with the creamy pumpkin and nutty chickpeas results in a dish that is both comforting and nourishing. This bowl is perfect for a weekday dinner or meal prep, as it's easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Plus, it's packed with nutrients that make it satisfyingly wholesome.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:22:10.238Z

When I decided to make a pumpkin dish, I wanted to bring more than just the usual fall flavors into the mix. That’s how the idea for my Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl came to life. The combination of warm spices like allspice and cinnamon with the sweetness of roasted pumpkin creates something truly delighting. I also love adding chickpeas for protein, making this bowl a wholesome meal.

The method of roasting the chickpeas alongside the pumpkin elevates the flavor. I recommend adjusting the spice levels according to your preference; just a pinch of cayenne can really enhance the dish without overwhelming it. Making this bowl is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a colorful visual treat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm spices that create a comforting aroma in your kitchen
Nutritious chickpeas provide a satisfying protein boost
Versatile toppings allow for endless customization
Perfectly balanced flavors that sing together in every bite

      

Perfectly Roasting Your Pumpkin and Chickpeas

When roasting the pumpkin and chickpeas, ensure they are spread out in a single layer on their respective baking sheets. This prevents steaming and allows them to achieve that coveted caramelization. The pumpkin should be tender and slightly golden at the edges after about 25-30 minutes. For the chickpeas, you want them to be firm yet crispy; a good visual cue is when they start to turn a golden brown and produce a satisfying crunch when bitten into.

If you're looking for extra flavor, consider tossing the chickpeas in smoked paprika or garlic powder along with the spices. These additions not only enhance the aroma but also add a layer of depth to the overall taste. Don't be afraid to experiment; just remember that adjusting spice levels can dramatically change the final outcome. For instance, more cayenne will give it a spicier kick, while reducing it can maintain a gentle warmth.

Serving and Customizing Your Bowl

The beauty of the Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl lies in its versatility. While the base of quinoa or rice is hearty and satisfying, you can easily swap it for a grain of your choice, such as farro or brown rice, depending on your preference or what's pantry-friendly. This substitution can slightly shift the texture: quinoa is light and fluffy, while farro lends a chewier bite, offering a new dimension to the dish.

Don’t hesitate to mix and match your toppings! I love adding fresh avocado for creaminess, or a drizzle of tangy yogurt can enhance the dish's overall richness. For crunch, consider topping it off with toasted pumpkin seeds or slivered almonds. These not only provide a pleasing texture but also elevate the nutritional profile, adding healthy fats and proteins to your meal.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 medium pumpkin, peeled and diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cups cooked quinoa or rice
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Optional Toppings

Sliced avocado
Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt
Chopped nuts or seeds

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Oven and Chickpeas

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half the allspice, and salt and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.

Roast the Pumpkin

In another bowl, mix the diced pumpkin with the remaining olive oil, allspice, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Place the pumpkin on a separate baking sheet. Roast both the chickpeas and pumpkin for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden and tender.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer cooked quinoa or rice first, followed by the roasted pumpkin and chickpeas. Top with fresh cilantro and optional toppings like avocado slices or a dollop of yogurt.

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, consider blending some of the roasted pumpkin with stock to create a sauce for drizzling over the bowl. Pre-roasting the chickpeas gives them a satisfying crunch.

Nutritional Benefits

This bowl is a powerhouse of nutrition, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Chickpeas are loaded with protein and fiber, supporting muscle repair and digestive health. Meanwhile, pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, which can bolster immune function and skin health. Together, these ingredients create a well-balanced meal that fuels your body and satisfies your taste buds.

Moreover, if you're looking to boost the nutritional value even further, you could add some leafy greens, like spinach or kale, to your bowl. These greens can provide additional vitamins and minerals while complementing the dish's flavors. Just sauté them briefly until they wilt and stir them into your quinoa or rice before layering on the toppings.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

The Jamaican Spiced Pumpkin Chickpea Bowl is not only delicious but also a fantastic candidate for make-ahead meals. Both the roasted pumpkin and chickpeas can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until warm, keeping the texture pleasant.

To maintain freshness, store your toppings, like avocado and yogurt, separately. This ensures they do not get soggy or lose their vibrant texture. You can also freeze the chickpeas and pumpkin for longer storage. Just remember to cool them completely before packaging them in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other beans instead of chickpeas?

Absolutely! Black beans or kidney beans would both work well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan, just ensure to use plant-based yogurt if you choose to add toppings.

→ What can I serve this bowl with?

You can serve this bowl with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, the leftovers will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.