Maafe

Maafe – rich Malian peanut stew with vegetables
Mali
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Maafe, also known as groundnut stew, is a beloved dish in Mali that combines rich flavors of meat and peanuts. This hearty curry holds cultural significance, often enjoyed during communal gatherings and celebrations. Typically served with rice or fufu, Maafe is a comforting meal that reflects the culinary heritage of Mali.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs or beef stew meat, cut into chunks
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste
  • 1 cup natural peanut butter
  • 2 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup carrots, sliced
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1-2 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Season the meat chunks with salt and pepper.

Brown the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Add the meat chunks and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the chopped onions until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the garlic and ginger, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Add Tomato Paste and Spices

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 3-4 minutes to deepen its flavor.

Add paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, dried thyme, and chili powder. Mix well.

Add Peanut Butter and Broth

Stir in the peanut butter until well combined with the tomato paste and spices.

Pour in the chicken or beef broth, stirring continuously until the peanut butter is fully incorporated.

Simmer the Stew

Return the browned meat to the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated.

Add the sweet potato and carrots.

Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the meat and vegetables are tender.

Add Green Beans

Stir in the green beans and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until they are tender.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Finish and Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Maafe?

Maafe is a traditional Malian dish made with meat, peanut butter, and a blend of spices, resulting in a rich and flavorful curry.

Where does Maafe come from?

Maafe originates from Mali, where it is a staple dish enjoyed by many families.

What are the main ingredients in Maafe?

The key ingredients in Maafe include chicken or beef, peanut butter, tomato paste, onion, garlic, and ginger.

How long does Maafe take to make?

Maafe takes approximately 70-90 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Maafe?

Maafe is commonly served with rice, fufu, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.