Nigerian Groundnut Stew

Nigerian Groundnut Stew Recipe - Bold and Flavorful African Dish

Region / culture: Nigeria | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Nigerian Groundnut Stew, also known as Peanut Stew, is a flavorful and hearty dish that is popular in Nigerian cuisine. This stew is made with a combination of chicken, beef, tomatoes, onions, and peanut butter, creating a rich and creamy sauce that is perfect for serving over rice or mashed potatoes.

History

Groundnut Stew has been a staple in Nigerian cuisine for generations. Peanuts, or groundnuts as they are commonly known in Nigeria, are a popular ingredient in many West African dishes. The combination of peanuts with meat and vegetables creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is loved by many.

Ingredients

1 broiler/fryer chicken (2.5 to 3 lb (1.36 kg)), cut up
3 tbsp cooking oil
1 lb (454 g) beef stew meat, cut into 1 inch pieces
2 medium onions, chopped
1 medium green pepper, chopped
1 can (28 oz (794 g)) tomatoes, cut up
1 tsp salt
1 to 2 tsp ground red pepper
0.75 cup peanut butter
mashed sweet potatoes or hot cooked rice

How to prepare

In a large saucepan or dutch oven, brown the chicken pieces in hot oil for about 15 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside, reserving the drippings.
Add the beef, onion, and green pepper to the drippings.
Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.
Drain off the fat.
Stir in the undrained tomatoes, salt, and red pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat.
Cover and simmer for 30 more minutes.
Add the chicken pieces and simmer for an additional 20 minutes.
In a small saucepan, melt the peanut butter over low heat.
Stir the melted peanut butter into the chicken mixture and return it to a boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for another 20 minutes.
Skim off any fat that rises to the surface.
Serve the stew with mashed sweet potatoes or hot cooked rice.
You may also serve it with condiments such as sliced fresh bananas, fried slices of banana, chopped fresh orange or grapefruit, grated coconut and toasted grated coconut, chopped raw onions, fried onions, chopped green pepper, chopped tomato, chopped pineapple, chopped peanuts, and Nigerian dried flakes.
Sprinkle any or all of the above condiments on top of the stew.

Variations

Use different types of meat such as lamb or goat for a unique flavor.
Add vegetables such as spinach, okra, or eggplant for added nutrition.
Use different types of nut butter such as almond or cashew butter for a twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the chicken and beef before adding them to the stew to enhance the flavor.

- Be sure to skim off any fat that rises to the surface of the stew during cooking.

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

- Serve the stew with a variety of condiments for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Nigerian Groundnut Stew over mashed rice or sweet potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with a variety of condiments such as sliced bananas, chopped peanuts, and grated coconut for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meat before adding it to the stew enhances the flavor.

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

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond butter or cashew butter as a substitute for peanut butter for a different flavor profile.

- Use tofu or chickpeas in place of meat for a vegetarian version of this stew.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve Nigerian Groundnut Stew in a large serving bowl with a side of rice or sweet potatoes. Garnish with chopped peanuts, grated coconut, and sliced bananas for a colorful and flavorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Nigerian Groundnut Stew with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Serve with a glass of chilled hibiscus tea or a fruity sangria for a refreshing beverage option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Nigerian Groundnut Stew typically contains around 400-500 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in Nigerian Groundnut Stew primarily come from the tomatoes, onions, and peanut butter. A serving of this stew typically contains around 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this stew come from the cooking oil, peanut butter, and the chicken and beef used in the recipe. A serving of Nigerian Groundnut Stew typically contains around 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

The protein in this stew comes from the chicken and beef, making it a great source of this essential nutrient. A serving of Nigerian Groundnut Stew typically contains around 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Nigerian Groundnut Stew is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts, which are a common allergen. It is important to be mindful of any allergies when preparing and serving this dish.

Summary

Nigerian Groundnut Stew is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a hearty meal option that is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a comforting dinner at home.

Summary

Nigerian Groundnut Stew is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a comforting meal at home. With a rich and creamy peanut sauce, tender chicken and beef, and a variety of flavorful condiments, this stew is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young woman eager to learn new recipes and expand my culinary skills. I had been invited to a potluck dinner by a friend, and I wanted to bring something special to impress the other guests.

I had been flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother when I came across a recipe for Nigerian Groundnut Stew. The name intrigued me, and as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew I had to give it a try. I had never tasted anything like it before, and I was excited to explore the flavors of a different culture.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. The aroma of the spices filled the air as I sautéed the onions and garlic, added the chicken and vegetables, and finally poured in the creamy peanut butter and coconut milk. I let the stew simmer and thicken, stirring occasionally to blend all the flavors together.

When the stew was ready, I ladled it into a serving dish and sprinkled chopped peanuts on top for a crunchy garnish. I couldn't wait to share my creation with the other guests at the potluck. As soon as they took their first bite, their faces lit up with delight. They couldn't believe how delicious and unique the stew tasted.

I was flooded with compliments and requests for the recipe, and I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment knowing that I had successfully recreated a traditional Nigerian dish. From that day on, Nigerian Groundnut Stew became a staple in my cooking repertoire, and I would make it for special occasions or just when I wanted to treat myself to a taste of something exotic.

Years passed, and I continued to refine and perfect the recipe, adding my own twist here and there to make it truly my own. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about its rich and complex flavors. They would often ask me where I had learned to make such a delicious dish, and I would simply smile and say that it was a recipe that had found its way into my hands at just the right moment.

As I grew older, I realized that the true beauty of cooking lies in the stories and memories behind each dish. Every recipe I have learned and mastered over the years holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of the people and places that have shaped my culinary journey. The Nigerian Groundnut Stew is no exception – it is a testament to my curiosity and willingness to step out of my comfort zone and explore new flavors and techniques.

Today, as I stand in my kitchen preparing another batch of Nigerian Groundnut Stew, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe. It has brought me joy, connected me to a distant culture, and allowed me to share a part of myself with others through the simple act of cooking. And as I take a taste of the stew and savor the familiar blend of spices and textures, I am reminded once again of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.