Riz Sauce Arachide (Peanut Sauce Rice)
Riz Sauce Arachide, or Peanut Sauce Rice, is a beloved dish across West Africa, blending the creaminess of ground peanuts with aromatic spices. This rich, flavorful sauce served over steamed rice is a comforting meal that showcases the versatility of African cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Rice
- 2 cups (400 g) white rice
- 4 cups (1 liter) water
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
For the Peanut Sauce
- 1 cup (250 g) natural peanut butter or ground peanuts
- 2 cups (500 ml) chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) paprika
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ lb (250 g) chicken or beef (optional, for a non-vegetarian version)
Instructions
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Preparing the Rice
Rinse the rice thoroughly. In a medium pot, bring 4 cups (1 liter) of water to a boil. Add salt and the rice. Cover and simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
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Preparing the Peanut Sauce
Heat the vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Gradually add the peanut butter while stirring to combine.
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Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a gentle boil. Stir frequently to avoid sticking. Add paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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Optional Meat Addition: If using meat, cook it separately and add to the sauce during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
Serving
Serve the peanut sauce hot over steamed rice. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added flavor. This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Riz Sauce Arachide is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines creamy peanut flavors with fragrant spices. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s a wholesome meal that celebrates African culinary traditions.
