Print

Maafe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Maafe, also known as West African Peanut Stew, is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender vegetables and a creamy peanut-based sauce simmered with savory seasonings. Traditionally served over rice, it is a hearty and satisfying meal full of bold flavor.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 pound chicken thighs, beef stew meat, or chickpeas for a vegetarian version
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 3/4 cup natural peanut butter
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
  • Cooked white rice, for serving
  • Chopped peanuts, for garnish
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the chicken, beef, or chickpeas and cook until lightly browned.
  5. Stir in the carrots, sweet potato, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  7. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
  8. In a small bowl, whisk the peanut butter with a ladle of warm broth until smooth.
  9. Stir the peanut butter mixture into the stew.
  10. Continue simmering for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the stew has thickened.
  11. Stir in the kale or spinach and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until wilted.
  12. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  13. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh herbs.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, use chickpeas and vegetable broth.
  • Smooth peanut butter creates the most traditional texture, but crunchy peanut butter may also be used.
  • Add bell peppers, eggplant, zucchini, or okra for extra vegetables.
  • For added richness, stir in a splash of coconut milk near the end of cooking.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze cooled stew for up to 3 months and reheat with additional broth if needed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/maafe/