Peanut stew, a rich and flavorful dish with roots in West African cuisine, is a perfect blend of nutty, savory, and spicy flavors. This comforting dish, made with creamy peanut butter, vegetables, and fragrant spices, is easy to customize and can be enjoyed as a vegan meal or paired with protein like chicken. Whether you're looking for a satisfying dinner or a unique dish to share, this peanut stew recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

1/2 lb (225 g) carrots, diced

1 large onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp (15 g) ginger, grated

1 cup (250 g) creamy peanut butter

1 lb (450 g) canned diced tomatoes (or 2 medium fresh tomatoes, chopped)

6 cups (1.5 liters) vegetable broth

1 tsp (5 g) ground cumin

1 tsp (5 g) smoked paprika

1/2 tsp (2.5 g) cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup (150 g) spinach or kale, chopped

2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil

Optional: 1/2 lb (225 g) cooked chicken or tofu for added protein

Instructions:

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Add Sweet Potatoes and Carrots: Stir in the sweet potatoes and carrots, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Incorporate the Spices and Base: Add cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, stirring to coat the vegetables. Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.

Simmer and Add Peanut Butter: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the peanut butter until fully incorporated.

Finish the Stew: Add the spinach or kale and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until wilted. If using chicken or tofu, stir it in at this stage to warm through.

Season and Serve: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving: Serve peanut stew hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or with a side of crusty bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Peanut stew is a hearty, nutritious dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of West Africa. Its creamy, nutty base and bold spices make it a comforting meal for any occasion. Try this recipe to enjoy a bowl of global comfort food that’s both wholesome and delicious.