Groundnut Stew with Chicken

Groundnut Stew with Chicken Recipe from Zambia - Peanut Butter, Chicken, Onions, Tomatoes, and More

Region / culture: Zambia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Groundnut stew with chicken is a delicious and hearty dish that originates from West Africa. This flavorful stew is made with a base of peanut butter, meat, onions, tomatoes, and spices. It is a popular dish in many African countries and is enjoyed for its rich and creamy texture.

History

Groundnut stew with chicken 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 combination of peanut butter with meat and vegetables creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of peanut butter
1 lb (454 g) of chicken or meat
0.25 lb (113 g) of onions
0.25 lb (113 g) of diced tomatoes
1 can of tomato paste
salt and pepper
1 cup of milk
cayenne pepper (optional)

How to prepare

Cut the chicken or meat into 1-inch pieces and season with salt. Brown the meat, then add the onion, tomatoes, tomato paste, milk, and red pepper.
Simmer for 30 minutes. Then add the peanut butter.
Continue simmering until the sauce thickens.
Serve with rice.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with beef, lamb, or tofu for a different flavor.
Add vegetables such as sweet potatoes, okra, or spinach for added nutrition.
Use different spices such as curry powder or paprika to change up the flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to brown the meat before adding the other ingredients to enhance the flavor of the stew.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

- Stir the stew frequently to prevent the peanut butter from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

- Serve the stew with rice or another grain to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve groundnut stew with chicken over a bed of rice or with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meat before adding the other ingredients helps to develop the flavor of the stew.

- Simmering the stew slowly allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and creamy sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond butter or cashew butter in place of peanut butter for a different flavor.

- Substitute coconut milk for regular milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve groundnut stew with chicken in a large bowl with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts on top for added crunch. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair groundnut stew with chicken with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Serve with a glass of chilled white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover groundnut stew with chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of groundnut stew with chicken contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of groundnut stew with chicken contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of groundnut stew with chicken contains approximately 30 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of groundnut stew with chicken contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Groundnut stew with chicken is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts and milk, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Groundnut stew with chicken is a nutritious and filling dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a meal.

Summary

Groundnut stew with chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This West African-inspired recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this delicious stew with rice or bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Groundnut Stew with Chicken. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Alice in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the most tantalizing aroma of spices and herbs wafting through the air.

Alice, with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, beckoned me over to the stove where a bubbling pot of rich, creamy stew was simmering away. "Have you ever tried Groundnut Stew before, my dear?" she asked, her voice filled with excitement.

I shook my head, my curiosity piqued. Alice then proceeded to tell me the story of how she had learned to make this traditional West African dish from her mother-in-law, who hailed from Ghana. She explained how the stew was a staple in their household, a hearty and comforting meal that brought the family together around the dinner table.

As I watched Alice add in the ingredients – chicken pieces, tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and of course, the star of the show, creamy peanut butter – I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the way she effortlessly combined flavors and textures to create a dish that was both familiar and exotic at the same time.

After letting the stew simmer for a few hours, Alice ladled out a steaming bowl for me to try. With my first spoonful, I was transported to a world of bold and complex flavors – the nuttiness of the peanut butter, the warmth of the spices, and the tender juiciness of the chicken all melding together in perfect harmony.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged Alice for the recipe, scribbling down notes as she dictated the measurements and techniques. I couldn't wait to recreate this dish in my own kitchen and share it with my family.

Over the years, I have made countless batches of Groundnut Stew with Chicken, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own taste preferences. I have added extra chili peppers for a spicy kick, swapped out the chicken for beef or tofu for a vegetarian version, and even experimented with different nut butters for a unique twist.

But no matter how many variations I try, the essence of the dish remains the same – a soul-warming bowl of comfort that never fails to bring a smile to my loved ones' faces. I have passed down this recipe to my children and grandchildren, hoping that they too will find joy in the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal with those they hold dear.

As I stir a pot of Groundnut Stew on the stove, the familiar aroma filling my kitchen, I am reminded of that fateful day in Alice's kitchen and the magic of discovering a new recipe that has become a cherished tradition in my own family. And for that, I am forever grateful.