Delve into the rich and savory flavors of West Africa with our Groundnut Stew recipe. This traditional dish, also known as Peanut Stew, is a celebration of bold flavors and a testament to the region's culinary diversity. Let's explore how to prepare this delightful stew that's perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Exploring Groundnut Stew

Groundnut Stew, or Peanut Stew, is a beloved and widely consumed dish across West Africa. It's characterized by its creamy, nutty sauce made with ground peanuts and enriched with a variety of ingredients, including meat or vegetables. It's a comforting and hearty meal that's both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients You'll Need:

1 pound of Chicken, beef, or tofu (for a vegetarian version), cut into pieces

1 cup of Smooth peanut butter

1 Onion, finely chopped

2 cloves of Garlic, minced

2 teaspoons of Ground cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred level of spiciness)

2 Sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

1 Eggplant, diced

2 cups of Okra, chopped (optional)

2 Tomatoes, diced

6 cups of Chicken or vegetable broth

1/4 cup of Cooking oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preparing Groundnut Stew:

Start by marinating the chicken or beef pieces with minced garlic, ground cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes.

Heat the cooking oil in a large pot and sauté the marinated meat until it's browned on all sides. If you're making a vegetarian version, skip this step and proceed to the next.

Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they become translucent.

Stir in the smooth peanut butter and let it cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly.

Add the sweet potatoes, eggplant, and okra (if using), and continue to cook for a few more minutes.

Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce the heat and let the stew simmer until the vegetables are tender and the sauce thickens.

Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the spice level with more ground cayenne pepper if desired.

Serving Groundnut Stew:

Groundnut Stew is traditionally served with rice, fufu, or a similar starchy side.

Enjoy this delicious and nutty West African dish, a true celebration of regional flavors.