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DINNER

Sudanese Peanut Butter and Lamb Stew with Rice

This hearty Sudanese stew combines tender lamb with a rich, savory peanut butter sauce, infused with aromatic spices. Served over fluffy rice, it's a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for dinner.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the lamb cubes and sear them on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.

02

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

03

Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then return the seared lamb to the pot.

04

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 60 minutes, or until the lamb is very tender.

05

After 60 minutes, stir in the creamy peanut butter until it is fully dissolved and the stew has thickened. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the stew reaches your desired consistency.

06

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve the Sudanese Peanut Butter and Lamb Stew hot over cooked white rice.

About This Recipe

This hearty Sudanese stew combines tender lamb with a rich, savory peanut butter sauce, infused with aromatic spices. Served over fluffy rice, it's a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for dinner.
Sudanese Peanut Butter and Lamb Stew with Rice
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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♨

Chef's Tips

For a richer flavor, brown the lamb in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. If the stew becomes too thick, add a little more beef broth or water until it reaches your preferred consistency. A touch of fresh cilantro or parsley can be added at the end for garnish.
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Easy Substitutions

Chicken or beef can be used instead of lamb. For a vegetarian version, use chickpeas and sweet potatoes. Almond butter can replace peanut butter for a different flavor profile. Adjust spices to your preference, adding more cayenne for extra heat or omitting it for a milder stew.
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Storage & Reheating

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this stew with a side of fluffy white rice to soak up the rich sauce. For a traditional Sudanese experience, pair it with Kisra (a thin, fermented bread). A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would also complement the richness of the stew. You could also offer a sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts for added texture.

Common Mistakes

1. Not browning the lamb: Skipping this step means missing out on a crucial layer of flavor. Sear the lamb well before simmering. 2. Overcrowding the pot: When browning the lamb, work in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear, rather than steaming the meat. 3. Adding peanut butter too early: Peanut butter can scorch if added at the beginning of cooking. Stir it in towards the end for best results. 4. Not simmering long enough: Lamb needs time to become tender. Ensure it simmers for at least 60 minutes, or until fork-tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the lamb and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the peanut butter during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What kind of peanut butter should I use?

Creamy, unsweetened peanut butter is best for this recipe to ensure a savory flavor. Avoid sweetened varieties or those with added oils if possible.

Can I add vegetables to this stew?

Absolutely! Diced carrots, potatoes, or sweet potatoes can be added along with the tomatoes. Spinach or collard greens can be stirred in during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to a deeply flavorful Sudanese Peanut Butter and Lamb Stew lies in the slow simmering process, which allows the lamb to become incredibly tender and the spices to meld beautifully with the peanut butter. Don't rush this step. The peanut butter acts as a natural thickener and provides a unique, creamy texture that is characteristic of many West African and Sudanese stews. If you find the stew separating slightly after adding peanut butter, a quick whisk can help re-emulsify it.
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