Jamaican Chicken Foot Pumpkin Soup
How To Make A Hearty Caribbean Comfort Food With Chicken Feet+ Tips
Jamaican Chicken Foot Pumpkin Soup is a beloved Caribbean dish, especially in Jamaica, where it’s a staple for weekend meals. This soup is thick, flavourful, and packed with tender chicken feet, sweet pumpkin, starchy ground provisions, and bold spices. Unlike lighter soups, it’s a full meal in a bowl, filling, nutritious, and deeply comforting.
Many Jamaicans call it “Saturday Soup” because it’s traditionally enjoyed on weekends, much like how Sunday is reserved for rice and peas. The dish stands out for its unique texture from collagen-rich chicken feet and its balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavours.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Rich in collagen – Chicken feet make the broth thick and nourishing, great for skin and joints.
- Budget-friendly – Chicken feet are inexpensive but add tons of flavour.
- One-pot meal – Packed with veggies, meat, and dumplings, it’s a complete dish.
- Comfort food at its best – Warm, hearty, and perfect for chilly days.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
To make authentic Jamaican Chicken Foot Pumpkin Soup, you’ll need a mix of fresh produce, spices, and chicken feet. Here’s what goes into it:
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Why It’s Used | Substitutes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken feet | Adds gelatinous texture and deep flavour | Chicken necks, wings, or feet-free soup (for texture, add cornstarch) |
| Caribbean pumpkin (calabaza) | Sweet, creamy base | Butternut squash, kabocha squash |
| Yam, potatoes, carrots | Hearty, starchy fillers | Sweet potatoes, cassava |
| Scotch bonnet pepper | Spicy kick (use whole for mild heat) | Habanero, jalapeño (less heat) |
| Thyme, garlic, scallions | Classic Jamaican seasoning | Italian seasoning (if needed) |
| Allspice (pimento), bay leaves | Warm, earthy depth | Nutmeg, cinnamon (small amounts) |
| Dumplings (spinners) | Chewy, doughy bites | Store-bought dumplings or omit |
Optional Add-Ins
- Corn on the cob – Adds sweetness.
- Coconut milk – Makes broth creamier.
- Grace Cock Soup Mix – A Jamaican pantry staple for extra flavour.
How to Make Jamaican Chicken Foot Pumpkin Soup
Step 1: Prep the Chicken Feet
Chicken feet need a good cleaning before cooking:
- Rinse well under cold water.
- Remove nails with a sharp knife (optional but recommended).
- Blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes to remove impurities, then drain.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
- In a large pot, sauté garlic, scallions, and thyme in oil for 1 minute.
- Add chicken feet and cover with water (about 8 cups).
- Toss in bay leaves, allspice, and whole Scotch bonnet pepper.
- Simmer for 30 minutes until chicken feet soften.
Step 3: Add Veggies & Dumplings
- Stir in chopped pumpkin, yam, potatoes, and carrots.
- Cook for 20 minutes until veggies are tender.
- Blend half the pumpkin for a thicker broth (optional).
- Drop in dumplings (if using) and simmer for 10 more minutes.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning & Serve
- Remove Scotch bonnet pepper (unless you want extra heat).
- Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or scallions.
Tips for the Best Chicken Foot Soup
- For extra flavour, brown the chicken feet before boiling.
- Want it spicier? Pierce the Scotch bonnet pepper while cooking.
- Short on time? Use an Instant Pot (cooks in 25 minutes).
- No pumpkin? Butternut squash works just as well.
Why Jamaicans Love This Soup
This dish isn’t just food, it’s a cultural tradition. Many Jamaicans grew up eating this soup on weekends, often made in big batches for family gatherings. The collagen from chicken feet is also believed to:
- Support joint health
- Boost skin elasticity
- Strengthen nails and hair
Plus, it’s an affordable way to make a filling, nutrient-dense meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make it without chicken feet?
Yes! Swap in chicken wings or necks, but the broth won’t be as thick.
2. Is it spicy?
Only if you break the Scotch bonnet pepper. Keeping it whole adds flavour without too much heat.
3. How long does it last?
Store in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
Jamaican Chicken Foot Pumpkin Soup is more than just a meal, it’s a taste of Caribbean comfort. Whether you’re craving something hearty or want to try authentic Jamaican cooking, this soup delivers. Give it a try this weekend and see why it’s a Jamaican favourite!
