Authentic Gambian Domoda Recipe: A Savory African Peanut Stew Delight

Ingredients

  • 500g beef, chopped into cubes
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup of smooth peanut butter
  • 4 cups of water
  • 1 Maggi cube (or any other stock cube)
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 cups of raw rice
  • Assorted vegetables (such as carrots, eggplant, okra), chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped beef and cook until it is browned on all sides.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir well and cook until the onions are translucent.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste and chopped tomatoes. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter with a cup of water until it forms a smooth paste. Add this paste to the pot.
  5. Add the remaining water, Maggi cube, Scotch bonnet pepper (if using), salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Stir well.
  6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
  7. Add the chopped vegetables to the pot. Cover and let it simmer for another 15 minutes.
  8. While the stew is simmering, prepare the rice according to the package instructions.
  9. Once the stew is ready, adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  10. Serve the stew over the cooked rice. Enjoy your delicious Domoda!

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use chicken or lamb instead of beef for a different flavor.
  • Make it vegetarian by using tofu or tempeh instead of meat.
  • Add some vegetables like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or butternut squash for extra texture and flavor.
  • For a spicy kick, add more Scotch bonnet peppers or other hot peppers.
  • Experiment with different nut butters such as almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.
  • Add some curry powder or other spices to give the dish an aromatic twist.
  • Include some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
  • For a creamier version, substitute some of the water with coconut milk.
  • Try using brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.
  • For a thicker stew, reduce the amount of water or increase the amount of peanut butter.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our delicious Domoda recipe! Domoda is a popular dish from The Gambia, known for its rich and hearty flavors. It's a mouthwatering stew made with tender beef, assorted vegetables, and a beautiful peanut butter base that gives it a unique and comforting taste. Served over a bed of fluffy rice, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide on how to prepare Domoda. The process involves browning the beef, creating a flavorful sauce with tomatoes, onion, garlic, and peanut butter, and simmering the vegetables until they're tender. The final result is a rich and satisfying stew that you'll want to make again and again. So, are you ready for a culinary journey to The Gambia? Let's start cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef? Yes, you can use chicken, lamb, or even goat meat as a substitute for beef in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  2. Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of smooth? Smooth peanut butter works best for this recipe as it blends well with the other ingredients. However, you can use chunky peanut butter if you prefer a slightly different texture.
  3. Can I omit the Scotch bonnet pepper? Yes, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the Scotch bonnet pepper. However, it does add a nice level of heat and flavor to the dish.
  4. What can I serve with Domoda? Domoda is traditionally served over cooked rice. You can also serve it with couscous or even bread.
  5. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftover Domoda in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - to cook the Domoda stew
  • Wooden spoon - for stirring and mixing the ingredients
  • Knife - to chop the beef, onion, garlic, and vegetables
  • Cutting board - to safely chop the ingredients
  • Measuring cups - to measure the peanut butter, water, and rice
  • Measuring spoons - to measure the vegetable oil, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice
  • Bowl - to mix the peanut butter with water
  • Serving spoon - to serve the Domoda stew
  • Plates - to serve the Domoda stew and rice
  • Fork - for eating the Domoda stew and rice

Origin stories

Domoda, the national dish of Gambia, tells a tale of the country's rich history and culture. It’s a delicious peanut stew primarily prepared with meat, fish or vegetables. This beloved dish symbolizes the blending of diverse culinary traditions in Gambia, drawing on the region's abundant groundnut crop and the influence of many different ethnic groups. The incorporation of peanut butter in the stew is a testament to the country's agricultural landscape where peanuts are widely grown. The simple act of preparing and sharing Domoda is, in essence, a celebration of Gambia's unity in diversity, and the joyous spirit of its warm and hospitable people.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.