Go Back
West African cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors and unique combinations of ingredients. One of the standout dishes that embodies this culinary richness is peanut butter stew, a comforting and hearty meal that has become a staple across the region. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a glimpse into the diverse food culture of West Africa.

West African Peanut Butter Stew

Warm up your fall evenings with this creamy West African Peanut Butter Stew, a perfect blend of comforting flavors that celebrates the season. Packed with sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and a medley of spices, this easy weeknight dinner brings a taste of West Africa right to your table. It's nourishing, hearty, and ideal for cozy gatherings or a simple weeknight meal. Try it tonight and enjoy a delightful, vibrant dish that will satisfy your cravings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup smooth peanut butter

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

2 medium carrots, sliced into thin rounds

1 red bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices

4 cups vegetable broth

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped, for garnish

Fresh cilantro, finely chopped, for garnish

Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, warm the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for approximately 5 minutes, or until they turn translucent. Then, incorporate the minced garlic and grated ginger, continuing to cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic.

    Prepare the Veggies: Add the cubes of sweet potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped red bell pepper into the pot. Stir the mixture well, allowing it to cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften slightly.

      Incorporate the Base: Pour in the diced tomatoes (including their juices), along with the smooth peanut butter, vegetable broth, rinsed chickpeas, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the peanut butter is completely incorporated into the stew.

        Simmer: Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes and carrots are tender and cooked through, stirring occasionally.

          Finish with Greens: Once the vegetables are tender, fold in the fresh spinach or kale, stirring until the greens are just wilted. Taste and adjust any seasonings as needed.

            Serve: Ladle generous portions of stew into bowls, garnishing each serving with finely chopped cilantro. Serve hot over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa for a nourishing and complete meal.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4-6 servings

                Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, consider serving the stew in shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra peanut butter or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts on top, and place a lime wedge on the side for a vibrant touch.