Groundnut Stew

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) chicken, beef, or lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
2 large tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 cup natural peanut butter (groundnut paste)
4 cups chicken broth or water
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
2 large sweet potatoes or yams, peeled and cut into chunks
1 cup chopped spinach or kale (optional)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Brown the Meat

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

Add the chicken, beef, or lamb pieces and brown on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

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

Combine Ingredients

Return the browned meat to the pot.

Stir in the natural peanut butter until well combined.

Pour in the chicken broth or water and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Add Sweet Potatoes

Add the sweet potatoes or yams to the pot.

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the stew simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meat and sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally.

Add Greens

If using, stir in the chopped spinach or kale and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the greens are wilted and tender.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.