Pork and Peanut Stew

Pork and Peanut Stew Recipe from West Africa - Ingredients and Steps

Region / culture: West Africa | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Pork and Peanut Stew is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of pork with the nutty taste of peanuts. This stew is a popular dish in many African and Asian cuisines, where peanuts are a common ingredient in savory dishes. The combination of tender pork, aromatic spices, and creamy peanut butter creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in.

History

The origins of Pork and Peanut Stew can be traced back to West African cuisine, where peanuts are a staple ingredient in many traditional dishes. Peanuts were introduced to Africa by Portuguese traders in the 16th century and quickly became a popular ingredient in African cooking. Over time, peanuts were incorporated into stews, sauces, and soups, adding a rich and nutty flavor to the dishes.

Ingredients

2 tbsp of peanut oil, divided
2 lb (907 g) of boneless pork butt, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
0.5 tsp of curry powder
0.5 tsp of ground coriander
0.5 tsp of ground cumin
0.5-1 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes
0.5 tsp of ground ginger
0.25 tsp of cinnamon
1 bay leaf
1 tsp of salt
2 cups of chicken broth
3 tbsp of tomato paste
0.5 cup of chunky peanut butter
2 plum tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
0.25 cup of chopped cilantro
0.5 cup of unsalted peanuts, shelled

How to prepare

In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp of oil over high heat. Once hot, add the pork cubes and cook until they become soft.
Stir in the garlic, curry powder, coriander, cumin, and crushed red pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
Add ginger, cinnamon, bay leaf, salt, chicken broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Bring the liquid to a boil, cover, and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes.
Add peanut butter and blend well. Cook the stew for another 3 minutes, uncovered, to allow the flavors to blend.
Stir in the chopped tomato and bell pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables soften but still retain their shape.
Before serving, taste the stew to correct the seasonings. You may wish to add a final splash of lemon juice to refresh the flavors.

Variations

For a vegetarian version of the stew, you can substitute the pork with tofu or chickpeas.
Add diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a touch of sweetness and extra nutrients.
Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as turmeric, paprika, or thyme, to create your own unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the stew, toast the peanuts in a dry skillet before adding them to the pot. This will bring out their nutty flavor and add a crunchy texture to the dish.

- For a thicker stew, you can add more peanut butter or simmer the stew for longer to allow the flavors to intensify.

- If you prefer a spicier stew, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the pot.

- Serve the stew with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Pork and Peanut Stew hot over a bed of steamed rice or with a side of crusty bread. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the pork cubes before adding them to the stew will enhance their flavor and texture.

- Simmering the stew on low heat allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and aromatic sauce.

- Taste the stew as it cooks and adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have peanut oil, you can use vegetable oil or olive oil as a substitute.

- Instead of pork butt, you can use pork shoulder or pork loin in this recipe.

- If you don't have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or water as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

Pork and Peanut Stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stew on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the stew in individual bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro. You can also drizzle a swirl of peanut butter on top for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Pork and Peanut Stew with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. A glass of chilled white wine or a cold beer would complement the flavors of the stew nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stew on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of the stew contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

The Pork and Peanut Stew contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

The stew is rich in healthy fats, with approximately 25 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

Each serving of the stew provides around 30 grams of protein, making it a great source of this essential nutrient.

Vitamins and minerals

Pork and Peanut Stew is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Summary

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

Summary

Pork and Peanut Stew is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender pork with the nutty taste of peanuts. This hearty stew is rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making it a nutritious and delicious meal option. Serve the stew with rice or bread for a complete and satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Pork and Peanut Stew. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, visiting my Aunt Mildred in the countryside. Aunt Mildred was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and that particular day, she was preparing a special stew for dinner.

As I watched her in the kitchen, I was mesmerized by the way she effortlessly chopped vegetables, seasoned the meat, and added a handful of peanuts to the pot. The aroma of garlic and onions filled the air, and I could hardly wait to taste the finished dish.

When Aunt Mildred finally served the stew, I took my first bite and was instantly hooked. The combination of tender pork, creamy peanut butter, and savory spices was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I begged her for the recipe, but she just smiled and told me that it was a family secret passed down through generations.

Determined to learn the recipe for myself, I spent the next few weeks shadowing Aunt Mildred in the kitchen, taking notes and observing her every move. I watched as she browned the pork in a hot skillet, then added onions, garlic, and tomatoes to create a rich broth. Finally, she stirred in a generous dollop of creamy peanut butter, which gave the stew its signature flavor and velvety texture.

After much trial and error, I finally mastered the recipe for Pork and Peanut Stew. Over the years, I have made it countless times for family gatherings, holiday feasts, and cozy dinners at home. Each time I prepare the stew, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in Aunt Mildred's kitchen, surrounded by the comforting scents and flavors of my childhood.

The recipe has become a treasured heirloom in our family, passed down from one generation to the next. My own children have grown up loving the stew, and now they are eager to learn the secrets of its preparation themselves. I have taught them the importance of patience, attention to detail, and a generous hand when it comes to seasoning.

As I grow older, I find solace in the familiar routines of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones. The act of preparing a warm and comforting stew brings me a sense of peace and connection to my past. I am grateful for the memories and traditions that have shaped me into the cook I am today.

So, the next time you find yourself craving a hearty and flavorful dish, why not try your hand at making Pork and Peanut Stew? Let the aroma of garlic and onions fill your kitchen, and savor the rich and satisfying flavors that have been lovingly passed down through the generations. Who knows, maybe one day you will be the one sharing this treasured recipe with your own family, creating new memories and traditions to be cherished for years to come.