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Authentic West African Mafe (Peanut Stew)

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Mafe, a rich and comforting peanut stew from West Africa, blends tender meat, creamy peanut butter, tomatoes, and a medley of vegetables into a bold and hearty dish. Bursting with flavor and soul-warming depth, it’s best served with steamed rice or couscous to soak up the luscious, spicy-sweet sauce.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 lbs beef or lamb, cut into chunks
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
  • 4 cups beef broth or water
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup green beans
  • 1–2 hot chili peppers (scotch bonnet or habanero), optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Cooked rice or couscous for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  2. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add beef chunks and brown on all sides.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in broth or water and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. In a bowl, mix peanut butter with a ladle of hot broth until smooth. Add it to the stew and stir well.
  7. Add carrots, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, green beans, and chili peppers (if using). Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin.
  8. Cover and simmer for 45–60 minutes, or until meat and vegetables are tender and sauce is thickened.
  9. Serve hot over rice or couscous.

Notes

  • Substitute chicken for a lighter variation.
  • Use chunky peanut butter for added texture if preferred.
  • Can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day.
  • Adjust chili quantity to suit your spice tolerance.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/authentic-west-african-mafe-peanut-stew/