Can I make this stew spicier?
Yes, you can add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a finely minced Scotch bonnet pepper along with the garlic for extra heat.
LUNCH
West African Groundnut Stew with Chicken and Rice
This hearty West African Groundnut Stew, also known as Maafe, features tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory peanut butter sauce with vegetables. Served over fluffy rice, it's a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
02
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook over medium heat until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
03
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, chicken broth, creamy peanut butter, curry powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine, ensuring the peanut butter is fully dissolved into the liquid.
04
Return the browned chicken to the pot. Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
05
While the stew simmers, prepare the rice. Combine 1 cup of white rice and 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all water is absorbed and rice is tender.
06
After 30 minutes, check the stew for seasoning and adjust if necessary. The sauce should be thickened and the chicken cooked through.
07
Serve the West African Groundnut Stew hot over the cooked white rice.
About This Recipe
This hearty West African Groundnut Stew, also known as Maafe, features tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory peanut butter sauce with vegetables. Served over fluffy rice, it's a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For a thicker stew, remove the lid during the last 10 minutes of simmering. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little more chicken broth. You can also add vegetables like diced carrots or sweet potatoes during step 4 for extra nutrition and flavor.
Easy Substitutions
Feel free to use beef or lamb instead of chicken, adjusting cooking time as needed. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth, adding chickpeas or firm tofu. Almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter if there are allergies, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover groundnut stew and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The stew freezes well for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of steamed collard greens or spinach. Offer a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or roasted peanuts as a garnish. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens the flavors. For a more traditional experience, serve with fufu or banku instead of rice.
Common Mistakes
Using too much heat: High heat can cause the peanut butter to stick and burn to the bottom of the pot. Always simmer on low heat. Not stirring enough: Peanut butter can settle, so stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Undercooking the chicken: Ensure chicken is cooked through and tender by simmering for the recommended time. Not seasoning properly: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving; the peanut butter can absorb a lot of seasoning. Overcooking the rice: Follow the rice cooking instructions carefully to avoid mushy or dry rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of peanut butter should I use?
Creamy, unsweetened peanut butter works best for this recipe. Avoid natural peanut butter that separates too much, as it can make the sauce oily.
Can I prepare this stew in advance?
Absolutely! Groundnut stew often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
MORE TO KNOW
Groundnut stew, or Maafe, is a staple across West Africa, with variations found in Senegal, Mali, Ghana, and Nigeria. The key to its rich flavor is the slow simmering of the peanut butter with tomatoes and spices, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Don't be afraid to let it simmer a bit longer if you want a deeper, more developed taste. The consistency can vary from thick to slightly thinner, depending on regional preferences and how much liquid is used. Some recipes also include a touch of ginger or a Scotch bonnet pepper for heat.
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