Groundnut Stew II

Groundnut Stew II Recipe from Democratic Republic of Congo

Region / culture: Democratic Republic of Congo | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Groundnut stew, also known as peanut stew, is a popular dish in many West African countries. It is a hearty and flavorful stew made with a base of ground peanuts or peanut butter, along with a variety of vegetables, meats, and spices. This recipe for Groundnut Stew II is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in.

History

Groundnut stew has been a staple in West African cuisine for centuries. Peanuts are native to the region and have been used in cooking for generations. The stew is often made with a combination of meat, vegetables, and spices, creating a rich and flavorful dish that is enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

1-2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes (optional)
2-3 tbsp peanut oil
1 or 2 chickens, cut into large bite-sized pieces
salt (to taste)
black pepper (to taste)
chicken broth or stock (optional)
2-3 tomatoes, chopped
2-3 onions, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
1-2 hot chile peppers, chopped (optional)
0.5 tsp ground ginger or coriander
pinch of thyme or a bay leaf
0.25 cup dried shrimp or dried prawns (optional)
1 medium eggplant (optional)
1 sweet green pepper (or bell pepper), chopped (optional)
1 squash, chopped (optional)
1 cup peanut butter (preferably natural and unsweetened)

How to prepare

Boil the sweet potatoes until they begin to soften. In a large pot, heat oil and fry the meat until it turns brown. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat, add a cup of chicken broth, and let it simmer.
Heat oil in a skillet. Fry the tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chili peppers over high heat. Add spices. If desired, add optional vegetables, sweet potatoes, dried shrimp or prawns. Reduce the heat and stir in peanut butter and a bit of water or broth. Stir until smooth.
Add the tomato-onion-peanut mixture to the simmering meat. Stir thoroughly and continue to simmer until the meat is cooked and the vegetables are tender.
Serve with boiled rice. Garnish with breadcrumbs or croutons, chopped nuts, chili peppers, salt, black pepper, and red pepper.

Variations

Use beef or lamb instead of chicken for a different flavor.
Add okra or spinach for extra vegetables.
Use coconut milk instead of peanut butter for a creamy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use natural and unsweetened peanut butter for the best flavor in this stew.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables and meats.

- Adjust the amount of chili peppers to suit your spice preference.

- Serve the stew with boiled rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Groundnut Stew II with boiled rice or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with chopped nuts, chili peppers, and fresh herbs for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the sweet potatoes until they begin to soften before adding them to the stew.

- Fry the meat until it turns brown to enhance the flavor of the stew.

- Simmer the stew slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable oil instead of peanut oil if desired.

- Substitute tofu or tempeh for the meat for a vegetarian version.

- Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This stew can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the stew with chopped nuts, chili peppers, and fresh herbs for a colorful and appetizing presentation. Serve it in a large bowl with a side of rice or bread.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Groundnut Stew II with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Serve it with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a delicious and satisfying dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of this stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Groundnut Stew II contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

The sweet potatoes in this stew provide a good source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy production and overall health.

Fats

Peanut oil and peanut butter are rich in healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are important for heart health and overall well-being.

Proteins

The chicken and prawns in this stew are excellent sources of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair, as well as overall health and wellness.

Vitamins and minerals

This stew is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and fiber, which are important for immune function, vision, and digestion.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts, which are a common allergen. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, this Groundnut Stew II is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Groundnut Stew II is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Groundnut Stew II. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Ghana. My grandmother, who was known for her incredible cooking skills, had invited me into her kitchen to help her prepare a special meal for a family gathering.

As we worked side by side, she began to share with me the story behind this particular dish. She told me that Groundnut Stew, also known as peanut stew, was a traditional West African recipe that had been passed down through generations. It was a dish that was loved by many, not only for its delicious flavor but also for its ability to bring people together.

My grandmother explained that the stew was made with a rich and creamy peanut sauce, flavored with a blend of spices and herbs. It was typically cooked with meat, vegetables, and sometimes even fish or seafood. The combination of ingredients created a savory and hearty dish that was perfect for feeding a crowd.

As we continued to work on the stew, my grandmother shared with me the secret to making it truly special. She explained that the key to a great Groundnut Stew was in the preparation of the peanuts. They needed to be roasted until they were golden brown, then ground into a smooth paste before being added to the sauce. This step, she said, was what gave the stew its distinct nutty flavor and creamy texture.

I watched in awe as my grandmother expertly roasted the peanuts over an open flame, carefully turning them to ensure they were evenly cooked. The kitchen was filled with the warm, toasty aroma of the nuts, and I couldn't wait to see how they would transform the stew.

Once the peanuts were ground into a smooth paste, my grandmother added them to a pot along with a mixture of diced onions, tomatoes, and peppers. She seasoned the sauce with a blend of spices, including ginger, garlic, and cumin, before adding in chunks of tender beef and sweet potatoes.

As the stew simmered on the stove, the flavors mingled together, creating a mouthwatering aroma that filled the kitchen. My grandmother and I worked together to stir the pot, tasting and adjusting the seasonings until it was just right.

When the stew was finally ready, we served it up in bowls and garnished it with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. The first bite was like a taste of heaven – the rich, nutty sauce paired perfectly with the tender meat and vegetables, creating a harmony of flavors that danced on my tongue.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I knew that I had to learn how to make this stew for myself, so I begged my grandmother to teach me her recipe. She smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride, and promised to pass down the secret to making the perfect Groundnut Stew.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time adding my own twist and personal touch. I have shared it with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this beloved dish to a new generation. And every time I cook it, I am reminded of that special moment in my grandmother's kitchen, when I first discovered the magic of Groundnut Stew II.