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Roasted Eggplant in Mafé Peanut Sauce

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Roasted eggplant in mafé peanut sauce is a hearty, plant-based dish inspired by West African cuisine. It features tender roasted eggplant coated in a creamy, savory peanut-tomato sauce spiced with ginger, garlic, and cumin. Perfect over rice or couscous.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium eggplants, sliced into rounds or cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for roasting)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes or blended fresh tomatoes
  • 1/3 cup natural peanut butter (unsweetened)
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • Cooked rice, couscous, or bread (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss eggplant with 2 tbsp oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and soft.
  3. Meanwhile, heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion for 5 minutes until translucent.
  4. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
  6. Add crushed tomatoes, peanut butter, broth, cumin, and cayenne (if using). Stir until smooth.
  7. Simmer sauce for 10–15 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. Add roasted eggplant to the sauce and stir gently to coat. Simmer for 5 more minutes to combine flavors.
  9. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve over rice, couscous, or with bread.

Notes

  • Roasting the eggplant first helps it hold its shape and absorb the sauce.
  • Use unsweetened peanut butter for the most authentic flavor.
  • Customize with other vegetables like okra, sweet potato, or zucchini.
  • Add coconut milk for a creamier version.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/roasted-eggplant-in-mafe-peanut-sauce/