GROUNDNUT STEW (Peanut Stew)

A creamy, nutty classic found in many West African homes. This rich stew is made with ground peanuts, seasoned meats, and a tomato-based sauce simmered until thick and deeply flavorful. Popular across Togo, Ghana, Nigeria, and beyond, it’s a true comfort dish often served with rice or swallows.

 

 

Flavour Pairing: Rice, yam, or fufu 

 Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 40 mins | Serves: 4

 

 

INGREDIENTS

 

1½ cups natural peanut butter (or ground roasted peanuts)

2 medium tomatoes, chopped

1 medium onion

1 hot pepper (Scotch bonnet or chili)

1 tablespoon tomato paste

2 seasoning cubes

Salt, to taste

Water or stock, as needed

1–2 tablespoons oil

For the Meat:

1½–2 cups goat meat, beef, or chicken

1 small onion, chopped

Salt, dry pepper, garlic & ginger powder

 

 

DIRECTIONS

 

Cook the meat:

Season the meat with chopped onion, salt, and dry spices. Simmer in a pot with a little water until tender. Reserve the broth.

Blend the base:

Blend tomatoes, onion, and hot pepper until smooth.

 

Cook the sauce:

In a large pot, heat oil and cook the blended mixture until it thickens and the oil begins to rise. Add tomato paste, stir, and continue cooking for 5–7 minutes.

 

Add meat & broth:

Stir in the cooked meat and a portion of the reserved broth. Let simmer for 5–10 minutes so the flavors combine.

Add peanut butter:

In a bowl, mix peanut butter with a bit of warm water or broth to loosen it, then stir into the pot. Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the stew thickens and the oil begins to rise again.

 

Adjust & serve:

Add more water if needed for a thinner consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning.

 

Enjoy with

Steamed rice, fufu, or boiled yam. This rich, hearty stew is perfect for soaking into every bite.