West African Peanut Stew (Maafe) Flavorful Comfort Dish

Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 red bell pepper chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 cup smooth natural peanut butter
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• to taste salt and pepper
• for garnish chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the sweet potato and red bell pepper to the pot, stirring well to combine with the sautéed onions.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, peanut butter, and vegetable broth, mixing thoroughly until the peanut butter is well incorporated.
5. Season the stew with cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the chickpeas and chopped kale or spinach, allowing them to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the greens are wilted and incorporated.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.