Simmer chicken and sweet potatoes in a fiery, aromatic broth packed with vegetables until tender. Stir in coconut milk and shrimp for a rich, hearty stew that pulls inspiration from the classic Jamaican Pepper Pot stew.
Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Pat the chicken dry, and season with some salt and pepper. Add the chicken, smooth side down, to the pan and cook until brown, about 4 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate. Add the onion and garlic to the pot, and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the allspice and tomatoes and cook until the juices are almost evaporated. Add the chicken broth, kale, sweet potatoes, okra, bay leaves, the 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, Scotch bonnet, and thyme. Bring the liquid to a boil, adjust the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook, uncovered, until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender, about 25 minutes.
Stir in the coconut milk and the shrimp and simmer until the shrimp turn pale pink and are firm but not tough and rubbery, about 2 minutes. Ladle the stew into warm bowls and serve.
Cook’s Note
Not for the faint of heart, Scotch bonnets are about as fiery as a chile gets. If you can't find one, substitute a habanero.
This recipe has been updated to more accurately recognize its origin or to add cultural context. It may differ from what was originally published or broadcast.
Copyright 2005 Television Food Network, G.P. All rights reserved.