Traditional West African Maafe Recipe: A Hearty Peanut Stew

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds of beef, cubed
  • 1 cup of vegetable oil
  • 2 large onions, chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup of peanut butter
  • 6 cups of water
  • 2 Maggi cubes (beef bouillon)
  • 1 can (16 ounce) of crushed tomatoes
  • 1 pound of fresh okra, trimmed and sliced
  • 1 sweet potato, peeled and cut into cubes
  • 1 cup of chopped cabbage
  • 1 cup of chopped carrots
  • 1/2 cup of chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup of chopped bell pepper
  • 1 fresh hot pepper, chopped (optional)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides.
  2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot, stirring until the onions become translucent.
  3. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to ensure the beef is evenly seasoned.
  4. Add the peanut butter to the pot, stirring until it melts and coats the beef and onions.
  5. Pour in the water and add the Maggi cubes. Stir until the cubes are dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
  6. Add the crushed tomatoes to the pot and stir.
  7. Add the fresh okra, sweet potato cubes, chopped cabbage, chopped carrots, chopped celery, chopped bell pepper, and chopped hot pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.
  8. Add the bay leaves, and then lower the heat. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. After 45 minutes, check that the vegetables are tender. If they are not, continue to simmer the stew until the vegetables are cooked through.
  10. Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and cilantro. Allow the stew to simmer for another 5 minutes.
  11. After 5 minutes, remove the pot from the heat. Let the stew sit for 10 minutes before serving.
  12. Enjoy your Maafe with rice, couscous, or bread.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - A pot large enough to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for stirring.
  • Stirring spoon - A spoon or utensil for mixing and stirring the ingredients in the pot.
  • Chopping board - A sturdy surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables.
  • Sharp knife - A knife suitable for cutting and dicing the beef and vegetables.
  • Measuring cup - A cup for accurately measuring ingredients like peanut butter and water.
  • Can opener - A tool for opening the can of crushed tomatoes.
  • Serving bowls - Bowls for serving the Maafe stew.
  • Cooking utensils - Additional utensils like tongs or ladles for handling and serving the stew.

Recipe variations

  • Replace beef with chicken or lamb for a different protein option.
  • Add extra vegetables such as green beans, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
  • Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different nutty flavor.
  • Experiment with different spices like paprika, turmeric, or ginger to customize the flavor profile.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute tofu or tempeh for the meat and use vegetable broth instead of water.
  • Add a dash of coconut milk for a creamy and tropical twist.
  • Include diced tomatoes with green chilies to add a spicy kick.
  • Serve the Maafe over quinoa, couscous, or mashed sweet potatoes instead of rice.
  • Garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, or lime wedges for added freshness and texture.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of Maggi cubes.

Recipe overview

Maafe, also known as West African Peanut Stew, is a rich, hearty dish that brings together a chorus of flavors from fresh vegetables, succulent beef and creamy peanut butter. This stew is a staple in many West African countries due to its satisfying combination of protein, vegetables, and spice. In this recipe, we'll guide you step by step in creating this delightful dish. The preparation involves browning beef, sautéing onions and garlic, and gradually incorporating a variety of vegetables, spices, and peanut butter to build a deep, complex flavor profile. The result is a beautifully thick stew that's perfect served over rice, couscous, or with a side of bread for dipping. From start to finish, expect to spend about an hour and a half on this recipe, most of it simmering time to bring out the flavors. The aroma that fills your kitchen as you prepare Maafe is just a preview of the delicious meal to come. Enjoy the process and the end result!

Common questions

  1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
    Yes, you can substitute chicken for beef in this recipe. Simply replace the beef cubes with boneless chicken pieces, such as chicken thighs or breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
  2. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
    While creamy peanut butter is traditionally used in Maafe, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer. It will add some texture to the stew.
  3. Can I use other vegetables?
    Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding or substituting vegetables according to your taste. Some popular additions include eggplant, green beans, or spinach.
  4. Can I make Maafe ahead of time?
    Yes, Maafe can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors tend to develop and intensify over time. Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
  5. What can I serve with Maafe?
    Maafe is traditionally served with white rice, but you can also enjoy it with couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread. The choice is yours!
  6. Is Maafe spicy?
    The level of spiciness in Maafe can be adjusted according to your preference. The recipe includes cayenne pepper, but you can increase or decrease the amount to make it milder or spicier. You can also omit the hot pepper if you prefer a mild version.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large Pot - A large pot is needed to cook the stew and accommodate all the ingredients.
  • Wooden Spoon - A wooden spoon is useful for stirring the ingredients while cooking.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board is needed for chopping the vegetables and preparing the ingredients.
  • Knife - A knife is essential for cutting the beef, onions, garlic, and other vegetables.
  • Measuring Cups - Measuring cups are necessary for accurately measuring the ingredients.
  • Can Opener - A can opener is required to open the can of crushed tomatoes.
  • Serving Bowls - Serving bowls are needed to present the Maafe stew.
  • Serving Spoons - Serving spoons are essential for serving the Maafe stew onto plates or bowls.
  • Cooked Rice, Couscous, or Bread - These are optional but commonly served alongside Maafe as a base or accompaniment.

Origin stories

Maafe, often known as peanut soup, holds a beloved place in the heart of West African cuisine. Its origins trace back to the Mandinka and Bambara people of Mali. The word 'Maafe' originates from the Mandinka and Bambara word for 'sauce'. As peanuts became a significant crop in West Africa, thanks to Portuguese traders in the 16th century, this hearty and nourishing dish evolved. It has since then traveled across borders and oceans, being adopted and adapted by many different cultures. Each region adds its own flair to the dish; some adding fish, others opting for meat, and some even choosing to make it vegetarian. However, the core of it remains the same - a rich, creamy, and comforting peanut-based stew. Maafe thereby is not just a dish, but a testament to the resilience and creativity of African culinary traditions.

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.