Authentic Senegalese Mafé Recipe: An African Peanut Stew Delight

Ingredients

  • 1kg beef, cut into cubes
  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can chopped tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 cups vegetable stock
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 small cabbage, shredded
  • 1 aubergine, diced
  • 1 red pepper, deseeded and chopped
  • 1 green pepper, deseeded and chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup cooked white rice, to serve

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the beef cubes to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent.
  4. Add the tomato paste and chopped tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  5. Add the peanut butter to the pot and stir until it is fully incorporated.
  6. Add the vegetable stock to the pot and stir well.
  7. Return the beef to the pot. Add the carrots, potatoes, sweet potato, cabbage, aubergine, red pepper, and green pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  8. Add the cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, and salt to the pot. Stir well.
  9. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the stew to simmer for about 2 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavours have melded together.
  10. Serve the mafé hot, over cooked white rice.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Substitute the beef with chicken or lamb for a different protein option.
  • Add vegetables of your choice such as green beans, okra, or pumpkin.
  • For a vegetarian or vegan version, omit the meat and use tofu or tempeh instead.
  • Experiment with different nut butters such as almond butter or cashew butter.
  • Spice it up by adding chili flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Add a tablespoon of curry powder or garam masala for a different flavor profile.
  • Try using coconut milk instead of vegetable stock for a creamy twist.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness.

Recipe overview

Mafé, also known as groundnut stew, is a rich and hearty dish that's a staple in many West African countries. This recipe features tender cubes of beef and a variety of vegetables, all smothered in a savoury and slightly spicy peanut butter-tomato sauce. The base of the sauce is made from a combination of peanut butter, tomatoes, and vegetable stock, which creates a creamy and flavourful backdrop for the beef and vegetables. Additional seasoning comes from cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt, which give the stew a hint of heat and a lot of depth. The stew is simmered low and slow to allow the flavours to meld together and the vegetables to become tender. Served over hot white rice, this mafé is a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for any time of the year.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef? Yes, you can use chicken, lamb, or even tofu as a substitute for beef in this recipe.
  2. Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? Absolutely! Simply omit the beef and use vegetable stock instead of meat-based stock. You can also replace the meat with tofu or tempeh for a vegan version.
  3. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter? Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer. It will add some texture to the dish.
  4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Definitely! Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic in a pan, then transfer everything to a slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  5. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, mafé freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  6. Can I adjust the spiciness of the mafé? Certainly! If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. You can also add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - A large pot is essential for cooking the mafé stew.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board is needed for chopping the onions, garlic, and vegetables.
  • Chef's knife - A sharp chef's knife is necessary for cutting the beef, onions, garlic, and vegetables.
  • Wooden spoon - A wooden spoon is useful for stirring the stew as it cooks.
  • Measuring cups - Measuring cups are needed to accurately measure the peanut butter, vegetable stock, and rice.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are required to measure the tomato paste, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.

Origin stories

Mafé, a beloved staple in many West African countries, particularly Senegal, traces its roots to the Mandinka and Bambara people of Mali. Its name comes from the Wolof word for "peanut," one of the dish's key ingredients. What's fascinating is that peanuts aren't indigenous to Africa. They were brought over from the New World during the Columbian Exchange around the 16th century. Over time, peanuts took root in African cuisine and culture, eventually giving rise to dishes like mafé. This hearty stew, also known as groundnut soup, is a beautiful illustration of global culinary evolution, a testament to the region's ability to adapt and innovate with new ingredients. Each spoonful tells a story of cultural exchange, resilience, and creativity.

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.