Mafé Recipe – Senegal's Hearty Curry

Name: Mafé
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 3-5 servings
Cuisine: Senegal
Ingredients: beef; black pepper; cabbage; carrots; cayenne pepper for heat; cloves garlic; coriander; cumin; g beef; lamb cut into cubes; onion; peanut butter natural unsweetened; potatoes; salt; tomato paste; tomatoes; vegetable broth; vegetable oil; white rice for serving

Mafé is a beloved Senegalese dish that features tender meat simmered in a creamy peanut sauce. This hearty curry is often enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings, highlighting the rich culinary traditions of Senegal. Traditionally served over rice, Mafé embodies the warmth of Senegalese hospitality.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~550 kcal / serving

Ingredients

2 lbs (900 g) beef or lamb, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 large tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 cup peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
4 cups beef or vegetable broth
2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 small cabbage, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt to taste
Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

Brown the Meat

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

Add the beef or lamb cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook until the tomatoes begin to break down and the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the browned meat to the pot.

Add the peanut butter and stir to combine.

Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped carrots, potatoes, and cabbage to the pot.

Cover and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meat and vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Serve the mafé hot over cooked white rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mafé?

Mafé is a traditional Senegalese curry made with meat and a rich peanut sauce, often served over rice.

Where does Mafé come from?

Mafé originates from Senegal, where it is a staple dish in the local cuisine.

What are the main ingredients in Mafé?

Key ingredients include beef or lamb, peanut butter, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and broth.

How long does Mafé take to make?

Mafé takes about 80-100 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Mafé?

Mafé is typically served with rice, but it can also be enjoyed with bread or couscous.

Mafé