Caribbean Pepper Pot Vegetarian Recipe Made Easy

Caribbean Pepper Pot is a beloved traditional stew originating from the rich culinary heritage of the Caribbean islands. Known for its bold, spicy flavors and hearty ingredients, this stew is typically made with meats, but today, we’re giving it a delicious vegetarian twist.

This Caribbean Pepper Pot vegetarian recipe captures the essence of the original dish by using a medley of fresh vegetables, beans, and traditional Caribbean spices, creating a warming, nutritious, and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Caribbean cuisine or exploring vegetarian options, this recipe offers a vibrant blend of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the tropics. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing friends with something a bit different but incredibly flavorful.

Ready to dive into a bowl of spicy, savory goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Caribbean Pepper Pot vegetarian recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. It combines the warmth of traditional Caribbean spices with the goodness of fresh vegetables and protein-packed beans, making it both comforting and nutritious.

The recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly, appealing to a wide range of diets without sacrificing taste.

It’s also incredibly versatile. The stew can be made ahead of time and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully.

Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means easy preparation and cleanup — a win-win for busy cooks. For those who love experimenting, this recipe invites you to add your favorite veggies or heat level, making it truly your own.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 2 cups callaloo or spinach, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup pumpkin or butternut squash, diced
• 1 cup black-eyed peas or kidney beans, cooked
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon allspice (pimento berries)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 stalks scallions, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander (for rinsing beans and vegetables)
• Vegetable peeler

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Rinse and chop all vegetables as indicated. If using dried black-eyed peas or kidney beans, soak and cook them until tender beforehand. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil: In your large pot or Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Add garlic, scotch bonnet, and bell pepper: Stir in the minced garlic, scotch bonnet pepper, and diced bell pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the aromas to develop. Be cautious with the scotch bonnet as it’s very spicy—adjust quantity to your heat preference.
4. Incorporate tomato paste and spices: Mix in the tomato paste, thyme, allspice, and smoked paprika. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and deepen the flavors.
5. Add the vegetables and broth: Add the cubed potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, and black-eyed peas to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring the ingredients are fully submerged. Increase heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer the stew: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
7. Finish with callaloo and scallions: Stir in the chopped callaloo (or spinach) and scallions. Cook uncovered for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted but still vibrant.
8. Season and add lime juice: Taste the stew and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
9. Garnish and serve: Ladle the Pepper Pot into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve hot with your favorite side like rice or bread.

Tips & Variations

“For a smoky depth, try adding a splash of liquid smoke or smoked sea salt. If you can’t find callaloo, spinach or kale make great substitutes.

For added protein, toss in some chickpeas or firm tofu cubes.”

You can adjust the heat by reducing or omitting the scotch bonnet pepper if you prefer milder dishes. For a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking.

This also enhances the Caribbean vibe of the stew.

If you want a chunkier stew, add less broth or cook uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid. Experimenting with root vegetables like yams or cassava can offer exciting texture and flavor variations.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Caribbean Pepper Pot is traditionally served with a side of fluffy white rice or rice and peas to soak up the rich broth. You can also enjoy it with steamed ground provisions like yam, dasheen, or breadfruit for a truly authentic Caribbean experience.

For a lighter meal, serve it with a crisp green salad or plantain chips. Leftovers make excellent fillings for wraps or even as a topping for baked potatoes.

If you want to explore other Caribbean-inspired dishes, check out our Calypso Rice Recipe or the hearty Harvest Hash Recipe.

Conclusion

This Caribbean Pepper Pot vegetarian recipe beautifully captures the spirit and warmth of Caribbean cooking while offering a wholesome plant-based alternative. It’s packed with vibrant vegetables, aromatic spices, and satisfying beans that make it a comforting and nutritious meal for any occasion.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply curious about Caribbean flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

The recipe’s adaptability means you can tweak it according to your pantry and spice tolerance, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Don’t forget to pair it with some of our other flavorful recipes, like the Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the refreshing Huckleberry Margarita Recipe for a full Caribbean-inspired dining experience.

Enjoy the rich culture and taste of the islands right at home with this vibrant pepper pot!

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